The John Walker vs Yoichi 20 Year Old

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

The John WalkerYoichi 20 Year Old
DistilleryJohnnie WalkerYoichi
RegionOther Scotch
CountryScotlandJapan
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV40%52%
AgeNAS20 yr
Price£2000£2500
Rating4.63/54.33/5

The John Walker

Smoke0/100
Sweetness78/100
Beginner85/100
Value2/100

Yoichi 20 Year Old

Smoke64/100
Sweetness43/100
Beginner35/100
Value2/100

The John Walker

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Yoichi 20 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The John Walker is rated higher (4.63 vs 4.33).

The John Walker is better value at £2000 vs £2500.

For beginners: The John Walker is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

The John Walker

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Higher community rating (4.6/5)
  • +More affordable (£2000 vs £2500)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Yoichi 20 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • High ABV (52%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£2500 vs £2000)
  • Lower community rating (4.3 vs 4.6)

Who should buy The?

The John Walker 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.

Who should buy Yoichi?

Yoichi 20 Year Old 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 The John Walker

VanillaHoneyTobaccoOld WoodSherried

Only Yoichi 20 Year Old

SmokeyOilyDried FruitMalt ExtractToasted

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