J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt vs Very Old Barton (45%)

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

J.G. Thomson Rich Blended MaltVery Old Barton (45%)
DistilleryJ.G Thomson & Co.Barton Distilling Company
Region
CountryScotlandAmerica
TypeBlended MaltBourbon
ABV46%45%
AgeNASNAS
Price£39.9£30.52
Rating5.00/5

J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt

Smoke0/100
Sweetness48/100
Beginner75/100
Value100/100

Very Old Barton (45%)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness68/100
Beginner90/100
Value0/100

J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Very Old Barton (45%)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Very Old Barton (45%) is better value at £31 vs £40.

For beginners: Very Old Barton (45%) is more approachable (90/100 beginner score).

J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • More expensive (£39.9 vs £30.52)

Very Old Barton (45%)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£30.52 vs £39.9)
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Who should buy J.G.?

J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt 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 Very?

Very Old Barton (45%) 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 J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt

SherriedDried FruitChocolateNutty

Only Very Old Barton (45%)

VanillaHoneyNew Wood

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