Imperial 35 Year Old 1989 - Aficionado (Murray McDavid) vs The John Walker King George V

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

Imperial 35 Year Old 1989 - Aficionado (Murray McDavid)The John Walker King George V
DistilleryImperialJohnnie Walker
RegionSpeysideOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV42.7%43%
Age35 yrNAS
Price£699.95£450
Rating4.73/5

Imperial 35 Year Old 1989 - Aficionado (Murray McDavid)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner75/100
Value0/100

The John Walker King George V

Smoke0/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner70/100
Value11/100

Imperial 35 Year Old 1989 - Aficionado (Murray McDavid)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The John Walker King George V

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The John Walker King George V is rated higher (4.73 vs 0.00).

The John Walker King George V is better value at £450 vs £700.

For beginners: Imperial 35 Year Old 1989 - Aficionado (Murray McDavid) is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Imperial 35 Year Old 1989 - Aficionado (Murray McDavid)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£699.95 vs £450)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.7)

The John Walker King George V

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.7/5)
  • +More affordable (£450 vs £699.95)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Imperial?

Imperial 35 Year Old 1989 - Aficionado (Murray McDavid) 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 The?

The John Walker King George V 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

Only Imperial 35 Year Old 1989 - Aficionado (Murray McDavid)

Fresh FruitHoneyVanillaCooked FruitSmokey

Only The John Walker King George V

Old WoodSherriedDried FruitTobacco

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