Jameson Gold Reserve vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Jameson Gold Reserve
Jameson
★ 4.38
£199
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
| Jameson Gold Reserve | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Jameson | Lagavulin |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | Ireland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Single Malt |
| ABV | 40% | 56.5% |
| Age | 18 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £199 | £250 |
| Rating | 4.38/5 | 5.00/5 |
Jameson Gold Reserve
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Jameson Gold Reserve
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.38).
Jameson Gold Reserve is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: Jameson Gold Reserve is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Jameson Gold Reserve
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (18 vs 12 years)
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.4 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
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 Jameson?
Jameson Gold Reserve 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 Jameson Gold Reserve
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)