Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022 vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

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

Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
DistilleryHibikiLagavulin
RegionIslay
CountryJapanScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV43%56.5%
AgeNAS12 yr
Price£199£250
Rating5.00/5

Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022

Smoke0/100
Sweetness59/100
Beginner70/100
Value0/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value20/100

Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022 is better value at £199 vs £250.

For beginners: Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022 is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 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)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£250 vs £199)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Hibiki?

Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022 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 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 Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022

FragantFresh FruitHoneyVanilla

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokeyMedicinalOilyKippery

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