Barrell Gray Label Bourbon vs Chivas Century of Malts - 1980s

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

Barrell Gray Label BourbonChivas Century of Malts - 1980s
DistilleryBarrell Craft SpiritsChivas Regal
Region
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBourbonBlended
ABV50.3%43%
AgeNASNAS
Price£175.73£150
Rating5.00/5

Barrell Gray Label Bourbon

Smoke0/100
Sweetness62/100
Beginner45/100
Value0/100

Chivas Century of Malts - 1980s

Smoke0/100
Sweetness61/100
Beginner70/100
Value33/100

Barrell Gray Label Bourbon

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Chivas Century of Malts - 1980s

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Chivas Century of Malts - 1980s is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Chivas Century of Malts - 1980s is better value at £150 vs £176.

For beginners: Chivas Century of Malts - 1980s is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Barrell Gray Label Bourbon

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • High ABV (50.3%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£175.73 vs £150)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Chivas Century of Malts - 1980s

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£150 vs £175.73)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Barrell?

Barrell Gray Label Bourbon 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 Chivas?

Chivas Century of Malts - 1980s suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

HoneyToasted

Only Barrell Gray Label Bourbon

ChocolateOld Wood

Only Chivas Century of Malts - 1980s

Malt ExtractVanillaDried Fruit

Explore more