Benriach The Forty vs The John Walker

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

Benriach The FortyThe John Walker
DistilleryBenriachJohnnie Walker
RegionSpeysideOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV43.5%40%
Age40 yrNAS
Price£2748.5£2000
Rating4.63/5

Benriach The Forty

Smoke0/100
Sweetness53/100
Beginner60/100
Value0/100

The John Walker

Smoke0/100
Sweetness78/100
Beginner85/100
Value2/100

Benriach The Forty

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The John Walker

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The John Walker is rated higher (4.63 vs 0.00).

The John Walker is better value at £2000 vs £2749.

For beginners: The John Walker is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Benriach The Forty

Pros

  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£2748.5 vs £2000)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.6)

The John Walker

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.6/5)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Benriach?

Benriach The Forty suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.

Who should buy The?

The John Walker 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.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Honey

Only Benriach The Forty

Cooked FruitChocolateNuttyToasted

Only The John Walker

VanillaTobaccoOld WoodSherried

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