Glen Grant vs Glenlivet: Whisky Matchup

Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 01:22 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 Glen Grant 12 vs Glenlivet 12 in this head-to-head 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

Glen Grant 12 vs Glenlivet 12: Which to Choose?

Glen Grant 12: Offers a straightforward and accessible Speyside experience, highlighting honey, apple, and vanilla with a smooth and creamy palate. It’s an ideal choice for newcomers or those preferring a gentle and fruity whisky without the complexity of heavier drams.

Glenlivet 12: Presents a smooth and mellow profile with vanilla and ripe fruit, making it another excellent option for those new to single malts. Its simplicity and smoothness serve as a gentle introduction to Scotch

Verdict: Both whiskies provide a welcoming entry into Speyside single malts, each with its unique character. Glen Grant 12 stands out for its slightly more complex flavor profile and creamy texture, while Glenlivet 12 is highly regarded for its exceptional smoothness and affordability. Your preference may hinge on whether you lean towards a bit more fruitiness or vanilla dominance in your dram, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Top 12 Year Single Malts

Glen Grant 12: A Straightforward Speyside Dram

Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Glenfiddich 12

While not as widely known as other Speyside names, Glen Grant 12 offers a reliable and approachable single malt experience.

Sweet & Fruity Nose: The aroma is sweet, with hints of honey, vanilla, apple, and apricot.

Smooth & Creamy Palate: The first sip reveals a pleasantly creamy texture.

Fruity & Easygoing Flavor: The taste is smooth and fruity, with apple and vanilla at the forefront, complemented by subtle hints of cinnamon and roasted almond.

Short & Unobtrusive Finish: The finish is short, leaving a touch of oak spice, lemon peel, and minimal warmth.

Ideal for Newcomers: This smooth and uncomplicated Single Malt is free of harshness, peat, smoke, or unpleasant characteristics, making it welcoming for those new to the world of single malts.

Enjoyment Tip: A drop or two of water is the recommended way to enjoy it, as more can make it dull.

Glen Grant 12 Facts:

Aged for 12 years in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks.
Founded in 1840 by brothers who transitioned from illegal distilling to a legitimate operation.
Uses purifiers in both distillations for a fresher and maltier flavor (claim by the distillery).

Glenlivet 12: A Smooth and Mellow Single Malt

Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Neat
Similar to: Glenrothes 12

Subtle & Sweet Aroma: Glenlivet 12 greets you with a gentle nose of toasted cereal, honey, and pear.

Smooth & Vanilla-Forward Palate: On the taste buds, it delivers a smooth and almost creamy experience. Vanilla is the star, accompanied by fruity undertones.

Short & Sweet Finish: The finish is relatively short, leaving behind lingering sweetness and vanilla notes.

Easy-Drinking Experience: This 12-year-old single malt is all about smoothness. Devoid of harshness, smoke, or complexity, it offers a gentle richness with prominent vanilla and honey flavors.

The “Plain Vanilla” of Scotch: While considered one of the smoothest Scotches, lacking smoke or bitter oak comes at the cost of limited complexity or memorable flavors. Think of it as a “plain vanilla” whisky.

Enjoyment Tips: Glenlivet 12 is excellent neat or straight. Craving more? A splash of water unlocks richer floral notes and enhanced sweetness, a popular method in Scotland.

Glenlivet 12 Facts: