Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Port Charlotte PC8 - Ar Duthchas

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)Port Charlotte PC8 - Ar Duthchas
DistilleryLagavulinBruichladdich
RegionIslayIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV56.5%60.5%
Age12 yr8 yr
Price£250£209.5
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

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

Port Charlotte PC8 - Ar Duthchas

Smoke68/100
Sweetness30/100
Beginner20/100
Value24/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Port Charlotte PC8 - Ar Duthchas

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Port Charlotte PC8 - Ar Duthchas is better value at £210 vs £250.

For beginners: Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is more approachable (20/100 beginner score).

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Longer maturation (12 vs 8 years)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£250 vs £209.5)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Port Charlotte PC8 - Ar Duthchas

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£209.5 vs £250)

Cons

  • High ABV (60.5%) — may need water

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 Port?

Port Charlotte PC8 - Ar Duthchas 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

Both taste of

SmokeyMedicinalOily

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Kippery

Only Port Charlotte PC8 - Ar Duthchas

Cooked Mash

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