Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:25 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Johnnie Walker King George V vs Royal Salute 21 in this in-depth comparison and decide which Whisky is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Johnnie Walker King George V vs Royal Salute 21: Comparison
King George V: A regal blend with a nose of dried fruit and chocolate, a palate rich in dried fruit and spices, and a long, malty finish. A luxurious and complex Scotch.
Royal Salute: Offers a smooth experience with a nose of apple and almond, a palate of oak and caramel, and a long finish with tobacco notes. An elegantly balanced whisky.
Verdict: King George V and Royal Salute both exemplify the art of blending, each with its own distinct character. King George V impresses with its luxurious complexity and depth, making it a fitting tribute to its namesake. Royal Salute, while more subdued, provides a harmoniously balanced sip that’s smooth and refined, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top Single Malts under $100
King George V: A Heavenly Sip, Fit for a King
- Nose: Dried fruit, chocolate, tobacco, smoke
- Palate: Dried fruit, cinnamon, nutmeg, chocolate
- Finish: Long, malt, baking spice
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Johnnie Walker Blue Label
Prepare to be dazzled. Today, we delve into the majestic King George V, a Scotch blend fit for royalty (and discerning whisky enthusiasts like you!). Buckle up, because this is one remarkable journey.
Aroma: Start with a subtly alluring first impression. Slowly, dried fruit riches unfold, accompanied by hints of decadent chocolate and earthy tobacco. A delicate whiff of smoke adds a touch of intrigue, promising even more depth.
Taste: Brace yourself for pure silk on the palate. This whisky envelopes your senses with its smooth, luxurious texture. Flavors of dried fruit and rich chocolate intertwine with warming baking spices, all perfectly balanced by a hint of restrained smoke. It’s a symphony of taste that leaves you begging for more.
Finish: Don’t expect a hasty goodbye. The lingering, gently warm finish is another masterpiece. Delicate smoke dances with dried fruit, while a touch of barrel spice adds a final flourish. It’s a truly satisfying conclusion to a remarkable experience.
Is it good? Good? It’s phenomenal! King George V is an exceptional whisky, a gem that transcends description. It’s smooth, complex, layered, and delivers a heavenly sipping experience.
The only caveat? The price tag might match its royal title. While I truly wish I could enjoy it regularly, it’s definitely a special occasion treat.
In conclusion, King George V is a masterpiece of the blending art. If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable whisky experience, this is one for the bucket list. Just be prepared to treat it like royalty!
Royal Salute: Smoothness & Balance, But Does It Shine?
- Nose: Apple, almond, vanilla
- Palate: Oak, caramel, raisin, baking spice
- Finish: Long, tobacco, oak spice, smoke
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Chivas Regal 25
Craving a smooth and mellow sip with classic Chivas Regal charm? The Royal Salute might fit the bill! Let’s dissect its aroma, taste, and overall experience to see if it elevates your whisky journey.
Aroma: Dive into familiar territory with apple juice notes, a signature of Chivas Regal whiskies. Hints of almond and vanilla add a touch of depth and sweetness.
Taste: Upfront, oakiness takes center stage, lending a mature and slightly dry character. But don’t worry, pleasant caramel sweetness and hints of raisins quickly join the party, balanced by a touch of warming baking spice.
Finish: Prepare for a long and warmly satisfying finale. Lingering oak spice brings a touch of bitterness, joined by a subtle tobacco note and a delicate hint of smoke that emerges later.
Is it good? Undeniably smooth and well-balanced, the Royal Salute offers a pleasant sipping experience. However, the flavors might feel somewhat subdued, lacking a standout “wow” factor. While there are no off-putting notes, it might not leave you with a truly remarkable memory.
The key takeaway: If you enjoy classic Chivas Regal smoothness and prefer mellow whiskies, this could be your new friend. However, if you crave intense flavor explosions or unique characteristics, you might want to explore other options. Additionally, a higher proof might enhance the body and flavor, but Chivas Regal chooses to keep it lower.
Ready to explore the world of whisky further? Ask me about options that pack more punch, or dive deeper into Chivas Regal’s offerings! I’m here to guide you on your whisky journey.
How do they differ?
The only distinction between these whiskies is the age statement provided by the Royal Salute.
The whiskies in the blend of the Royal Salute are aged at a minimum of 21 years while King George doesn’t disclose the age of the whiskies.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Johnnie Walker King George V | $620 |
| Royal Salute 21 | $230 |