Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021) vs Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
DistilleryLagavulinBarton Brands
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandAmerica
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV56.5%43%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£199£180
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner25/100
Value25/100

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s is better value at £180 vs £199.

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£199 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 £199)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Lagavulin?

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021) 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.

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 Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

SmokeyLeatheryMedicinalDried Fruit

Only Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

ToastedVanillaTobaccoHoneyOily

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