Hazelburn 12 Year Old vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Hazelburn 12 Year Old
Springbank
★ 4.58
£250
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
| Hazelburn 12 Year Old | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Springbank | Lagavulin |
| Region | Campbeltown | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 56.5% |
| Age | 12 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £250 | £250 |
| Rating | 4.58/5 | 5.00/5 |
Hazelburn 12 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Hazelburn 12 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.58).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is better value at £250 vs £250.
For beginners: Hazelburn 12 Year Old is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Hazelburn 12 Year Old
Pros
- +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.6 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Hazelburn?
Hazelburn 12 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Campbeltown character.
Who should buy Lagavulin?
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.
Tasting notes
Only Hazelburn 12 Year Old
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Where to buy
Hazelburn 12 Year Old
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange