Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) vs Johnnie Walker Explorers' Club Collection - The Gold Route
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
That Boutique-y Whisky Company
★ 5.00
£67

Johnnie Walker Explorers' Club Collection - The Gold Route
Johnnie Walker
★ 5.00
£90
| Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) | Johnnie Walker Explorers' Club Collection - The Gold Route | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | That Boutique-y Whisky Company | Johnnie Walker |
| Region | — | Other Scotch |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 48.8% | 40% |
| Age | 11 yr | NAS |
| Price | £66.95 | £89.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Johnnie Walker Explorers' Club Collection - The Gold Route
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Johnnie Walker Explorers' Club Collection - The Gold Route
Quick verdict
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is better value at £67 vs £90.
For beginners: Johnnie Walker Explorers' Club Collection - The Gold Route is more approachable (90/100 beginner score).
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£66.95 vs £89.95)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Johnnie Walker Explorers' Club Collection - The Gold Route
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£89.95 vs £66.95)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Islay?
Islay #4 11 Year Old (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 Single Malt character.
Who should buy Johnnie?
Johnnie Walker Explorers' Club Collection - The Gold Route 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
Only Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Only Johnnie Walker Explorers' Club Collection - The Gold Route