Johnnie Walker Premier vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Johnnie Walker Premier
Johnnie Walker
★ 5.00
£199
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
| Johnnie Walker Premier | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Johnnie Walker | Lagavulin |
| Region | Other Scotch | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 56.5% |
| Age | NAS | 12 yr |
| Price | £199 | £250 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Johnnie Walker Premier
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Johnnie Walker Premier
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Quick verdict
Johnnie Walker Premier is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: Johnnie Walker Premier is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Johnnie Walker Premier
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£250 vs £199)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
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.
Who should buy Lagavulin?
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) 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.
Tasting notes
Only Johnnie Walker Premier
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)