Lagavulin 1979 Distillers Edition / Bot.1997 / Litre Islay Whisky vs Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

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

Lagavulin 1979 Distillers Edition / Bot.1997 / Litre Islay WhiskyLaphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
DistilleryLagavulinLaphroaig
RegionIslay
CountryUnited KingdomScotland
TypeSingle Malt
ABV40%46.6%
AgeNAS32 yr
Price£2500£1500
Rating5.00/5

Lagavulin 1979 Distillers Edition / Bot.1997 / Litre Islay Whisky

Smoke64/100
Sweetness65/100
Beginner75/100
Value0/100

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner45/100
Value3/100

Lagavulin 1979 Distillers Edition / Bot.1997 / Litre Islay Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £1500 vs £2500.

For beginners: Lagavulin 1979 Distillers Edition / Bot.1997 / Litre Islay Whisky is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Lagavulin 1979 Distillers Edition / Bot.1997 / Litre Islay Whisky

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£2500 vs £1500)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£1500 vs £2500)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Lagavulin?

Lagavulin 1979 Distillers Edition / Bot.1997 / Litre Islay Whisky is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

Who should buy Laphroaig?

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

SherriedSmokeyDried Fruit

Only Lagavulin 1979 Distillers Edition / Bot.1997 / Litre Islay Whisky

Honey

Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

LeatheryOld Wood

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