Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs The Glendronach 18 Year Old
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250

The Glendronach 18 Year Old
GlenDronach
£180
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | The Glendronach 18 Year Old | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | GlenDronach |
| Region | Islay | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 56.5% | 46% |
| Age | 12 yr | 18 yr |
| Price | £250 | £179.99 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
The Glendronach 18 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
The Glendronach 18 Year Old
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
The Glendronach 18 Year Old is better value at £180 vs £250.
For beginners: The Glendronach 18 Year Old is more approachable (60/100 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 £179.99)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
The Glendronach 18 Year Old
Pros
- +More affordable (£179.99 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (18 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 Glendronach 18 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 2017)
Only The Glendronach 18 Year Old