Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary vs WhistlePig 15 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
WhistlePig 15 Year Old
WhistlePig
★ 5.00
£230
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary | WhistlePig 15 Year Old | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | WhistlePig |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | America |
| Type | Single Malt | Rye |
| ABV | 57.7% | 46% |
| Age | 12 yr | 15 yr |
| Price | £299 | £229.99 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary
WhistlePig 15 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary
WhistlePig 15 Year Old
Quick verdict
WhistlePig 15 Year Old is better value at £230 vs £299.
For beginners: WhistlePig 15 Year Old is more approachable (60/100 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 £229.99)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
WhistlePig 15 Year Old
Pros
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£229.99 vs £299)
- +Longer maturation (15 vs 12 years)
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
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 WhistlePig?
WhistlePig 15 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Rye character.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary
Only WhistlePig 15 Year Old