Glenfiddich 18 Small Batch Reserve Review

Last Updated on: 11th June 2024, 01:03 am

J Highland

J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.

Explore the subtleties of Glenfiddich 18 Single Malt Scotch through my detailed review.

Written by: J Highland

Glenfiddich 18: A Speyside Treat for Sweet-Toothed Whisky Enthusiasts

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Whiskey expert Neil Coleman describes the Glenfiddich 18 as a delightful balance between aged depth and subtle sweetness. Let's see if this 18-year-old single malt lives up to its promise.

Strengths:

• Sweet Spot of Maturity: The 18-year maturation strikes a perfect balance, avoiding the overly oaky characteristic sometimes found in older whiskies. Hints of sweetness linger on the palate, making it a pleasant experience.
• Gateway to Aged Malts: For those new to exploring older single malts, the Glenfiddich 18 provides a smooth and approachable introduction thanks to its maturation in Oloroso sherry casks and bourbon barrels. The attractive price tag adds to its appeal.
• Easy Drinking: This whisky prioritizes a clean and uncomplicated experience. It lacks strong flavors like smoke, peat, or spice, making it ideal for those who prefer a straightforward and enjoyable dram.
• Great Value: As one of the most affordable 18-year single malts on the market, the Glenfiddich 18 offers excellent value for money. Budget-conscious drinkers seeking a smooth and sweet Speyside experience will find it a solid choice.

Weaknesses:

• Potential for More Depth: The lower alcohol content might leave some drinkers wishing for a more robust flavor profile. A slightly higher proof could elevate the complexity without sacrificing the core smoothness.

Verdict:

The Glenfiddich 18 is a well-balanced and enjoyable Speyside single malt. Its sweetness and smooth character make it a great choice for those who appreciate easy-drinking whiskies. The affordable price tag adds to its appeal, especially for those new to exploring aged malts. However, if you crave a more intense flavor experience, whiskies with a higher proof might be a better fit.

• Related: Best 18 Year Old Single Malts
• Learn more: Glenfiddich 18 Website

What's unique about it?

The Glenfiddich 18-year-old release is matured in Oloroso Sherry and Bourbon barrels and comes at a gentle 80-proof (40% ABV).

How does it taste?

• Nose: Apple, citrus, cinnamon, oak
• Palate: Nuts, ripe fruit, honey, baking spice
• Finish: Short, sherry, oak
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat
• Similar to: Glenlivet 18

Glenfiddich 18 has an aroma similar to apple juice, complemented by undertones of citrus, cinnamon, and oak.

Its palate is agreeably sweet and fruity without being too intense, highlighting subtle flavors of honey and baked apple.

The whisky is silky smooth to sip, and while its finish might not be as lasting or rich as I might desire, it leaves a trace of oaky essence with a hint of sherry.

Is it smoky?

On a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 is the highest, the Glenfiddich 18 scores a 1, indicating it has no smokiness.

Glenfiddich 18 FAQ

This is a quick FAQ to address your questions:

Alternatives

• You might want to explore whiskies like GlenDronach 18 or Glenlivet 18.
• But if you're aiming for the pinnacle in this category, the Macallan 18 is a top choice, though it does come with a heftier price tag.

Price

Prices are approximate and stated in local currency:

• United States: $105
• Britain: £89
• Canada: $195
• Australia $185

How to drink it?

• The Glenfiddich 18 is effortlessly smooth right from the first pour.
• With its lower alcohol level, I'd suggest being sparing with water to avoid dampening its flavors.

Also read: How to Drink Glenfiddich 18 Year Old

Alcohol content

• 80 proof (40% ABV).

Does it expire?

• Alcoholic beverages don't expire.
• Store in a cool and dark place, away from sunlight.
• Consume fast once the content drops to 25% to prevent the whisky from developing weird flavors.

How to store it?

• Upright position in a cool area, protecting it from sunlight and preventing stopper contact.

How did I review Glenfiddich 18?

I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller.

My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and whiskey expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.

I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.

Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.

⭐ - Poor, ⭐⭐ - Average, ⭐⭐⭐ - Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Excellent.

Glenfiddich 18: Specs

How did I review the Glenfiddich 18?

I run a bar and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits.

My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons.

I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.

⭐ - Poor, ⭐⭐ - Average, ⭐⭐⭐ - Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Excellent.