Bowmore 16 Year Old 2003 (Release No.11697) - The Stories of Wind & Wave (The Character of Islay Whisky Company) vs Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

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

Bowmore 16 Year Old 2003 (Release No.11697) - The Stories of Wind & Wave (The Character of Islay Whisky Company)Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
DistilleryBowmoreBarton Brands
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandAmerica
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV49.9%43%
Age16 yrNAS
Price£264.95£180
Rating5.00/5

Bowmore 16 Year Old 2003 (Release No.11697) - The Stories of Wind & Wave (The Character of Islay Whisky Company)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness30/100
Beginner40/100
Value0/100

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

Smoke0/100
Sweetness68/100
Beginner85/100
Value28/100

Bowmore 16 Year Old 2003 (Release No.11697) - The Stories of Wind & Wave (The Character of Islay Whisky Company)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s is better value at £180 vs £265.

For beginners: Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Bowmore 16 Year Old 2003 (Release No.11697) - The Stories of Wind & Wave (The Character of Islay Whisky Company)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£264.95 vs £180)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Bowmore?

Bowmore 16 Year Old 2003 (Release No.11697) - The Stories of Wind & Wave (The Character of Islay Whisky Company) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Who should buy Barton's?

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s 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.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Toasted

Only Bowmore 16 Year Old 2003 (Release No.11697) - The Stories of Wind & Wave (The Character of Islay Whisky Company)

SmokeyCitric

Only Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

VanillaTobaccoHoneyOily

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