Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 01:31 pm
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.
Discover the differences between Macallan 12 vs Glenfiddich 12 in this in-depth comparison and decide which Single Malt is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Glenfiddich 12 vs Macallan 12: Which to Buy?
Glenfiddich 12: A welcoming introduction to Scotch with floral, fruity notes. Ideal for beginners seeking simplicity and smoothness.
The Macallan 12 Double Cask: Rich and flavorful, blending sherry sweetness with oak spice. Suited for those exploring deeper whisky flavors.
Verdict: Glenfiddich 12 is an accessible Scotch with floral and fruity flavors, ideal for beginners. The Macallan 12 Double Cask offers a deeper, sherry-infused taste for those looking for more complexity. Glenfiddich 12 is a great starting point, while The Macallan 12 appeals to those ready to explore richer profiles, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top-Ranked 12-Year Malts
Glenfiddich 12: A Gentle Introduction to Single Malt Scotch
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Cragganmore 12
A Nostalgic Favorite: Glenfiddich 12 holds a special place in the hearts of many, myself included, as it serves as a welcoming introduction to the world of Single Malt Scotch.
Aromatic Invitation: The nose presents a gentle and inviting aroma, offering delicate floral notes intertwined with hints of fruit and honey.
Smooth & Fruity: On the palate, the whisky boasts a respectable body, delivering a pleasant wave of fruity sweetness, followed by subtle pear undertones and a touch of oak.
Clean Finish: The finish, while not exceptionally long, remains smooth and leaves behind a lingering impression of pear and understated oak, devoid of any harshness or warmth.
Perfect for Beginners: For those new to exploring Scotch, the Glenfiddich 12 offers a friendly and approachable introduction. Its clean and sweet profile, free from complexity and harshness, makes it an excellent choice for newcomers curious about single malt Scotch or spirits in general.
A Timeless Classic: While seasoned enthusiasts may find it lacking in complexity, the Glenfiddich 12’s smooth character, affordability, and consistent quality ensure its enduring appeal and a place in the hearts of whisky enthusiasts worldwide.
Glenfiddich 12 Facts:
- Aged in a combination of used American oak and European sherry oak casks.
- Founded in 1887 by William Grant, with a rich history dating back to Christmas Day.
- Holds the title of best-selling single malt globally, producing 10 million liters annually.
The Macallan 12 Double Cask: A Sweet & Spicy Sherry-Kissed Dram
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Aberfeldy 12
Double Cask Magic: This whisky undergoes a unique “Double Cask” maturation, spending time in both sherry and American oak casks, infusing it with distinct flavors.
Aromatic Allure: The Macallan 12 opens with a pleasant sweetness on the nose, offering prominent notes of sherry, dried fruit, and a touch of oak.
Rich & Robust: On the palate, the whisky delivers a full-bodied flavor profile dominated by oak, accompanied by hints of bitter chocolate, sherry sweetness, and a subtle citrusy twist. It offers a gentle warmth that is neither harsh nor overpowering.
Lingering Delight: The finish is long and lingering, showcasing more oak flavors, complemented by rich dried fruit notes and a hint of subtle spice.
A Sweet & Complex Balance: This whisky offers a rich and flavorful experience that strikes a balance between sweetness and complexity. It carries a subtle chocolate undertone, a delicate spice, and a pleasant warmth, with the noticeable oak influence adding depth.
Stepping Stone to Sherry: The Macallan 12 serves as a great introduction to sherry cask matured Scotch, offering a taste of the style before venturing into bolder expressions.
Consider the Oak: Newcomers to whisky may find the oakiness slightly strong. A splash of water can soften it and make the dram smoother and more approachable.
Price Point: Due to its price point, this might not be the best choice for mixing in cocktails.
Macallan 12 Facts:
- Aged 12 years in a Double Cask process using American and European oak casks seasoned with sherry from Spain.
- Won Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2017 and Gold Medal with a 95-point rating from the International Review of Spirits Tasting in 2017.
- Founded in 1824 and located in Craigellachie, Moray, Scotland.
- Uncolored.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Macallan 12 Double Cask | $69 |
| Glenfiddich 12 | $36 |