Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Nikka Pure Malt Spice Rack Set

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)Nikka Pure Malt Spice Rack Set
DistilleryLagavulinNikka
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandJapan
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV56.5%43%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£250£208.49
Rating5.00/5

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

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

Nikka Pure Malt Spice Rack Set

Smoke0/100
Sweetness57/100
Beginner70/100
Value0/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Nikka Pure Malt Spice Rack Set

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

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

Nikka Pure Malt Spice Rack Set is better value at £208 vs £250.

For beginners: Nikka Pure Malt Spice Rack Set is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

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 £208.49)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Nikka Pure Malt Spice Rack Set

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£208.49 vs £250)

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

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.

Who should buy Nikka?

Nikka Pure Malt Spice Rack Set suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.

Tasting notes

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokeyMedicinalOilyKippery

Only Nikka Pure Malt Spice Rack Set

Malt ExtractVanillaToasted

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