Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 08:43 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 Cragganmore 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
Cragganmore 12 vs Glenfiddich 12: Comparison
Cragganmore 12: A Speyside whisky with a smoky twist. Citrus and caramel notes blend with a smoky background. Medium oak and caramel finish. 80 proof.
Glenfiddich 12: Smooth, floral, and fruity with pear and oak notes. Approachable and gentle with a medium finish. Great for newcomers. 80 proof.
Verdict: Cragganmore 12 offers a subtle smoke edge for those enjoying a twist, while Glenfiddich 12 is perfect for a smooth, fruity introduction to Speyside malts, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Speyside Best Whiskies
Cragganmore 12: A Speyside Whisky with a Touch of Smoke
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Dalwhinnie 15
Aroma: Cragganmore 12 greets you with a warm, fruity scent. Think juicy oranges, zesty lemons, and a hint of smoky campfire in the background.
Taste: This Speyside whisky is full-bodied and smooth, with a sweetness that reminds you of fresh bread. Spices and a touch of sweetness mingle on the palate, balanced by a subtle biscuit note.
Finish: The finish is gentle and smooth, leaving a lingering warmth and a hint of oak on your tongue.
More than just Speyside sweetness: While Cragganmore showcases the typical Speyside floral and sweet character, a delicate touch of peat smoke sets it apart, adding a unique twist to its flavor profile.
Great for all levels of whisky drinkers: Whether you’re new to single malts or a seasoned sipper, Cragganmore 12 is an enjoyable and easy-drinking option. Its smooth taste makes it perfect for beginners, while its subtle complexities offer something interesting for more experienced palates.
Cragganmore: A Speyside Legacy
- Aged for 12 years in used bourbon casks.
- Earned high scores at prestigious competitions like the Ultimate Spirits Challenge and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
- Hailing from Ballindalloch, Scotland, Cragganmore was founded in 1869 by John Smith, a renowned distiller.
- Currently owned by Diageo, Cragganmore contributes to popular blended scotches like Johnnie Walker.
Glenfiddich 12: A Smooth & Approachable Speyside Single Malt
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Auchentoshan 12
Light & Floral Aroma:
Glenfiddich 12 opens with a light and inviting nose, offering delicate floral notes, fruity nuances, and a touch of honey.
Fruity & Mellow Palate:
The taste has a decent body, featuring fruity sweetness, hints of pear, and a gentle oak presence.
Lingering Pear & Oak Finish:
The finish is smooth and of decent length, leaving behind a lingering essence of pear and subtle oak, with no burning sensation.
A Beginner’s Delight:
Glenfiddich 12 serves as a welcoming introduction for those new to the world of Scotch whisky. Its smooth and mellow profile, with fruit-forward notes and a lack of harshness or smoke, makes it an easy-drinking dram.
Beyond Beginners:
While seasoned whisky drinkers might find it lacking in complexity, Glenfiddich 12 remains a popular choice due to its consistent quality, affordability, and smooth character.
Glenfiddich 12 in a Nutshell:
- Aged in a combination of American oak and European sherry casks.
- Founded in 1887 by William Grant.
- Best-selling single malt whisky globally.
- Speyside whisky known for its smooth, creamy, and fruity character.
- Owned by William Grant & Sons.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Cragganmore 12 | $75 |
| Glenfiddich 12 | $52 |