Lagavulin 21 Year Old 1991 (Special Release 2012) vs Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

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

Lagavulin 21 Year Old 1991 (Special Release 2012)Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
DistilleryLagavulinLaphroaig
RegionIslayIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV52%46.6%
Age21 yr32 yr
Price£1999£1500
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Lagavulin 21 Year Old 1991 (Special Release 2012)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner35/100
Value3/100

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

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

Lagavulin 21 Year Old 1991 (Special Release 2012)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £1500 vs £1999.

For beginners: Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).

Lagavulin 21 Year Old 1991 (Special Release 2012)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (52%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£1999 vs £1500)

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£1500 vs £1999)
  • +Longer maturation (32 vs 21 years)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Lagavulin?

Lagavulin 21 Year Old 1991 (Special Release 2012) 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 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

SmokeySherriedOld WoodLeatheryDried Fruit

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