Last Updated on: 11th April 2024, 03:05 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Bowmore 12 vs Lagavulin 16 in this in-depth comparison and decide which Single Malt is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Bowmore 12 vs Lagavulin 16: Comparison
Bowmore 12: A smoky yet approachable Islay single malt that surprises with hints of pineapple and orange on the nose, leading to a palate of ripe fruit, honey, and vanilla, with a short finish dominated by smoke and mineral notes. Ideal for those seeking a gentler introduction to Islay’s peaty profile.
Lagavulin 16: A bold, peaty powerhouse with smoke, vanilla, and iodine on the nose, and a palate featuring smoke, tobacco, and seaweed, complemented by a long, smoky finish with hints of fig and vanilla. Perfect for aficionados of intense, peaty Scotch.
Verdict: Choose Bowmore 12 for a milder, fruity peat experience or Lagavulin 16 for a deeper dive into the rich, smoky essence of Islay. Each offers a unique take on the smoky Scotch journey, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Smoky Whiskey
Bowmore 12: A Smoky Delight with Subtle Twists
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Talisker 10
- Smoke level: 😮💨😮💨
Craving a smoky whisky with a twist? Bowmore 12 might be your perfect match! This Islay single malt offers a unique balance of smoke and sweetness.
First sniff: Prepare for a smoky wave, but wait! There’s more. Hints of pineapple and citrus peek through, adding a delightful surprise.
The taste: Bowmore 12 feels smooth and medium-bodied on your tongue. Expect a burst of ripe fruit, honey, vanilla, and a touch of iodine. The smoke is present but subtle, unlike some Islay whiskies.
The finish: It’s relatively short, with lingering smoke, a mineral note, and a hint of oak. Some may wish for a longer finish, but it’s still satisfying.
Good choice? Absolutely, for smoky whisky lovers who prefer a milder touch. Bowmore 12 uses less peat than many Islay whiskies, making it more approachable.
Things to keep in mind: It’s slightly lower proof than some whiskies, and the finish might feel shorter to some. However, it’s smooth, balanced, and lacks harshness, making it an enjoyable sip.
Bonus facts:
- Aged 12 years in ex-sherry and ex-bourbon barrels.
- Won gold at prestigious competitions.
- One of the oldest and most historic distilleries in Scotland.
- Hand-turns, malts, and peats its own barley for unique character.
Ready for a mild smoky adventure with a twist? Give Bowmore 12 a try!
Lagavulin 16: Smoky Scotch Perfection
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Laphroaig 16
- Smoke level: 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨
Craving a whisky with bold flavors? Look no further than Lagavulin 16, a peaty powerhouse from Scotland’s Islay region.
First sniff: Imagine a beach bonfire with hints of vanilla and caramel. Enticing, right?
The taste: Prepare for an explosion of smoke, caramel, and fruity sweetness. The peatiness is intense, but perfectly balanced by the caramel smoothness, creating a rich and delicious experience.
The feel: Think creamy and smooth, with a pleasant warmth that lingers.
The finish: A long, sweet, and warm goodbye with smoky whispers that linger pleasantly.
Is it worth the hype? Absolutely! This exceptional malt offers a strong peaty punch balanced by delightful sweetness. The aging magic has mellowed the smoke while adding a hint of vanilla sweetness from the barrels.
A true champion: Lagavulin 16 is considered one of the finest peaty Scotches and is best enjoyed neat. If the smoke feels too bold, a few drops of water can unlock the sweetness and make it more approachable.
Neat or with a touch of water, this whisky promises a rewarding and unforgettable experience.
Bonus facts:
- Won “Best Single Malt Whisky” in 2013 at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
- Founded in 1816, the distillery is a major contributor to Johnnie Walker blends.
Ready to explore the smoky side of whisky? Give Lagavulin 16 a try!
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Bowmore 12 | $65 |
| Lagavulin 16 | $105 |