Johnnie Walker Premier vs SMWS 42.43 9 Year Old 2000
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Johnnie Walker Premier | SMWS 42.43 9 Year Old 2000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Johnnie Walker | Tobermory |
| Region | Other Scotch | Island |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 59.7% |
| Age | NAS | 9 yr |
| Price | £199 | £150 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Johnnie Walker Premier
SMWS 42.43 9 Year Old 2000
Johnnie Walker Premier
SMWS 42.43 9 Year Old 2000
Quick verdict
Johnnie Walker Premier is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
SMWS 42.43 9 Year Old 2000 is better value at £150 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
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −More expensive (£199 vs £150)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
SMWS 42.43 9 Year Old 2000
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£150 vs £199)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (59.7%) — may need water
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
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 SMWS?
SMWS 42.43 9 Year Old 2000 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 SMWS 42.43 9 Year Old 2000