Johnnie Walker Premier vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
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 2021)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£199
| Johnnie Walker Premier | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021) | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Johnnie Walker Premier
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
Johnnie Walker Premier
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021) is better value at £199 vs £199.
For beginners: Johnnie Walker Premier is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Johnnie Walker Premier
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More widely reviewed by the community
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
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 2021) 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
Both taste of
Only Johnnie Walker Premier
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
Where to buy
Johnnie Walker Premier
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange