John Walker & Sons Private Collection (2016 Edition) vs Springbank 21 Year Old - Batch 3 (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

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

John Walker & Sons Private Collection (2016 Edition)Springbank 21 Year Old - Batch 3 (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
DistilleryJohnnie WalkerSpringbank
RegionOther ScotchCampbeltown
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV43%48.2%
AgeNAS21 yr
Price£500£599.95
Rating1.00/55.00/5

John Walker & Sons Private Collection (2016 Edition)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness69/100
Beginner85/100
Value2/100

Springbank 21 Year Old - Batch 3 (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness30/100
Beginner40/100
Value8/100

John Walker & Sons Private Collection (2016 Edition)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Springbank 21 Year Old - Batch 3 (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Springbank 21 Year Old - Batch 3 (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is rated higher (5.00 vs 1.00).

John Walker & Sons Private Collection (2016 Edition) is better value at £500 vs £600.

For beginners: John Walker & Sons Private Collection (2016 Edition) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

John Walker & Sons Private Collection (2016 Edition)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£500 vs £599.95)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (1.0 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Springbank 21 Year Old - Batch 3 (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • More expensive (£599.95 vs £500)

Who should buy John?

John Walker & Sons Private Collection (2016 Edition) 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 Springbank?

Springbank 21 Year Old - Batch 3 (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Campbeltown character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Old Wood

Only John Walker & Sons Private Collection (2016 Edition)

VanillaHoneyFresh FruitSherried

Only Springbank 21 Year Old - Batch 3 (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokeyLeatheryToastedMedicinal

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