Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs The GlenDronach 22 Year Old 1994 (cask 1376)

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)The GlenDronach 22 Year Old 1994 (cask 1376)
DistilleryLagavulinGlenDronach
RegionIslayHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV56.5%53.2%
Age12 yr22 yr
Price£250£210
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

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

The GlenDronach 22 Year Old 1994 (cask 1376)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness59/100
Beginner45/100
Value24/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The GlenDronach 22 Year Old 1994 (cask 1376)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The GlenDronach 22 Year Old 1994 (cask 1376) is better value at £210 vs £250.

For beginners: The GlenDronach 22 Year Old 1994 (cask 1376) is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£250 vs £210)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

The GlenDronach 22 Year Old 1994 (cask 1376)

Pros

  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£210 vs £250)
  • +Longer maturation (22 vs 12 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (53.2%) — may need water
  • 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 22 Year Old 1994 (cask 1376) 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

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokeyMedicinalOilyKippery

Only The GlenDronach 22 Year Old 1994 (cask 1376)

SherriedDried FruitChocolateHoneyToasted

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