Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid) vs Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid)
Murray McDavid
£220

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Barton Brands
★ 5.00
£180
| Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid) | Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Murray McDavid | Barton Brands |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | Scotland | America |
| Type | Blended Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 42.3% | 43% |
| Age | 31 yr | NAS |
| Price | £219.6 | £180 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid)
Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid)
Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
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 £220.
For beginners: Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£219.6 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 Malts?
Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt 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
Only Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid)
Only Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s