Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021) vs Johnnie Walker Premier

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)Johnnie Walker Premier
DistilleryLagavulinJohnnie Walker
RegionIslayOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV56.5%43%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£199£199
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner25/100
Value25/100

Johnnie Walker Premier

Smoke0/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner70/100
Value25/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Johnnie Walker Premier

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Johnnie Walker Premier is better value at £199 vs £199.

For beginners: Johnnie Walker Premier is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (56.5%) — may need water

Johnnie Walker Premier

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Lagavulin?

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021) 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 Johnnie?

Johnnie Walker Premier suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Dried Fruit

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

SmokeyLeatheryMedicinal

Only Johnnie Walker Premier

SherriedOld WoodChocolateTobacco

Where to buy

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

Johnnie Walker Premier

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