Hibiki 17 Year Old vs Lagavulin 1980 Distillers Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Hibiki 17 Year OldLagavulin 1980 Distillers Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
DistilleryHibikiLagavulin
Region
CountryJapanUnited Kingdom
TypeBlended
ABV43%40%
Age17 yrNAS
Price£699£1000
Rating4.75/5

Hibiki 17 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness61/100
Beginner70/100
Value7/100

Lagavulin 1980 Distillers Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Smoke68/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner60/100
Value0/100

Hibiki 17 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Lagavulin 1980 Distillers Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Hibiki 17 Year Old is rated higher (4.75 vs 0.00).

Hibiki 17 Year Old is better value at £699 vs £1000.

For beginners: Hibiki 17 Year Old is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Hibiki 17 Year Old

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.7/5)
  • +More affordable (£699 vs £1000)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Lagavulin 1980 Distillers Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£1000 vs £699)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.7)

Who should buy Hibiki?

Hibiki 17 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended character.

Who should buy Lagavulin?

Lagavulin 1980 Distillers Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Tasting notes

Only Hibiki 17 Year Old

HoneyVanillaFragantMalt Extract

Only Lagavulin 1980 Distillers Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

SmokeySherriedMedicinalDried FruitChocolate

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