Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

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

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970sLagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
DistilleryBarton BrandsLagavulin
RegionIslay
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV43%56.5%
AgeNAS12 yr
Price£180£199
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

Smoke0/100
Sweetness68/100
Beginner85/100
Value28/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner25/100
Value25/100

Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (56.5%) — 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 Lagavulin?

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021) 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

ToastedVanillaTobaccoHoneyOily

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

SmokeyLeatheryMedicinalDried Fruit

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