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 - 1970s
Barton Brands
★ 5.00
£180

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£199
| Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Barton Brands | Lagavulin |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | America | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 56.5% |
| Age | NAS | 12 yr |
| Price | £180 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
Barton's QT Premium American Whiskey - 1970s
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
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
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)