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 Malt
J.G Thomson & Co.
★ 5.00
£40

Very Old Barton (45%)
Barton Distilling Company
£31
| J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt | Very Old Barton (45%) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | J.G Thomson & Co. | Barton Distilling Company |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | Scotland | America |
| Type | Blended Malt | Bourbon |
| ABV | 46% | 45% |
| Age | NAS | NAS |
| Price | £39.9 | £30.52 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt
Very Old Barton (45%)
J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt
Very Old Barton (45%)
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
Only J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt
Only Very Old Barton (45%)