Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary vs Royal Brackla 21 Year Old
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£299
Royal Brackla 21 Year Old
Brackla
★ 5.00
£220
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary | Royal Brackla 21 Year Old | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Brackla |
| Region | Islay | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 57.7% | 40% |
| Age | 12 yr | 21 yr |
| Price | £299 | £219.99 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary
Royal Brackla 21 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary
Royal Brackla 21 Year Old
Quick verdict
Royal Brackla 21 Year Old is better value at £220 vs £299.
For beginners: Royal Brackla 21 Year Old is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
Cons
- −High ABV (57.7%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£299 vs £219.99)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Royal Brackla 21 Year Old
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£219.99 vs £299)
- +Longer maturation (21 vs 12 years)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Lagavulin?
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary 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.
Who should buy Royal?
Royal Brackla 21 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary
Only Royal Brackla 21 Year Old