James Martin's 20 Year Old vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
James Martin's 20 Year Old
James Martin
£199
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
| James Martin's 20 Year Old | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | James Martin | Lagavulin |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 56.5% |
| Age | 20 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £199 | £250 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
James Martin's 20 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
James Martin's 20 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
James Martin's 20 Year Old is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: James Martin's 20 Year Old is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
James Martin's 20 Year Old
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (20 vs 12 years)
- +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 James?
James Martin's 20 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 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 James Martin's 20 Year Old
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)