Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish vs Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

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

Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask FinishBarton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
DistilleryArdbegBarton Brands
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandAmerica
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV49.1%43%
Age23 yrNAS
Price£291.95£180
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner45/100
Value17/100

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

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

Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s is better value at £180 vs £292.

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

Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • More expensive (£291.95 vs £180)

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£180 vs £291.95)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Darkness!?

Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish 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

Only Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish

SmokeySherriedCooked FruitLeatheryOld Wood

Only Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

ToastedVanillaTobaccoHoneyOily

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