Johnnie Walker Premier vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

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

Johnnie Walker PremierLagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
DistilleryJohnnie WalkerLagavulin
RegionOther ScotchIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV43%56.5%
AgeNAS12 yr
Price£199£199
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Johnnie Walker Premier

Smoke0/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner70/100
Value25/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner25/100
Value25/100

Johnnie Walker Premier

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

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

Dried Fruit

Only Johnnie Walker Premier

SherriedOld WoodChocolateTobacco

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

SmokeyLeatheryMedicinal

Where to buy

Johnnie Walker Premier

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

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