Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s vs Caol Ila 14 Year Old Unpeated (Special Release 2012)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Barton Brands
★ 5.00
£180
Caol Ila 14 Year Old Unpeated (Special Release 2012)
Caol Ila
★ 5.00
£199
| Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s | Caol Ila 14 Year Old Unpeated (Special Release 2012) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Barton Brands | Caol Ila |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | America | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 59.3% |
| Age | NAS | 14 yr |
| Price | £180 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Caol Ila 14 Year Old Unpeated (Special Release 2012)
Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Caol Ila 14 Year Old Unpeated (Special Release 2012)
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).
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
Caol Ila 14 Year Old Unpeated (Special Release 2012)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (59.3%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£199 vs £180)
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.
Who should buy Caol?
Caol Ila 14 Year Old Unpeated (Special Release 2012) 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.
Tasting notes
Only Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Only Caol Ila 14 Year Old Unpeated (Special Release 2012)