Highland Malt Small Barrel Shaped Bottle vs J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt

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

Highland Malt Small Barrel Shaped BottleJ.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt
DistilleryHighland MaltJ.G Thomson & Co.
RegionOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedBlended Malt
ABV40%46%
AgeNASNAS
Price£38.5£39.9
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Highland Malt Small Barrel Shaped Bottle

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner85/100
Value100/100

J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt

Smoke0/100
Sweetness48/100
Beginner75/100
Value100/100

Highland Malt Small Barrel Shaped Bottle

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Highland Malt Small Barrel Shaped Bottle is better value at £39 vs £40.

For beginners: Highland Malt Small Barrel Shaped Bottle is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Highland Malt Small Barrel Shaped Bottle

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£38.5 vs £39.9)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£39.9 vs £38.5)

Who should buy Highland?

Highland Malt Small Barrel Shaped Bottle 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 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.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Toasted

Only Highland Malt Small Barrel Shaped Bottle

Malt ExtractVanillaHoney

Only J.G. Thomson Rich Blended Malt

SherriedDried FruitChocolateNutty

Explore more