Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s vs Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Barton Brands
★ 5.00
£180

Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish
Ardbeg
★ 5.00
£292
| Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s | Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Barton Brands | Ardbeg |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | America | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 49.1% |
| Age | NAS | 23 yr |
| Price | £180 | £291.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish
Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish
Quick verdict
Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s is better value at £180 vs £292.
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 £291.95)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
Cons
- −More expensive (£291.95 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 Darkness!?
Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Tasting notes
Only Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Only Darkness! Ardbeg 23 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish