Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid)

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid)
DistilleryLagavulinMurray McDavid
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV56.5%46.7%
Age12 yr35 yr
Price£250£183.59
Rating5.00/5

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

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

The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

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

The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid) is better value at £184 vs £250.

For beginners: The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid) is more approachable (55/100 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 £183.59)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid)

Pros

  • +More affordable (£183.59 vs £250)
  • +Longer maturation (35 vs 12 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

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 The?

The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid) 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 The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid)

SherriedDried FruitChocolateOld WoodTobacco

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