Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 12:58 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 Aberfeldy 12 vs Dewar’s 12 in this in-depth comparison and decide which Scotch Whisky 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
Aberfeldy 12 vs Dewar’s 12: Comparison
Aberfeldy 12: A blend of honey, toffee, and vanilla on the nose, with caramel and citrus on the palate, finishing with spicy oak and roasted nuts. Welcoming for both new and seasoned whisky enthusiasts.
Dewar’s 12 The Ancestor: Starts with vibrant citrus on the nose, caramel and vanilla on the palate, and finishes with oak spice and pepper. A refreshing choice that’s accessible and enjoyable.
Verdict: Aberfeldy 12 and Dewar’s 12 The Ancestor each offer a unique experience. Aberfeldy provides a smooth, honeyed introduction to single malts, while Dewar’s 12 offers a citrus-infused sip with subtle complexity. Both are excellent for those exploring the nuanced world of Scotch whisky, states spirits expert Neil Coleman.
Aberfeldy 12: Honeyed Delight and Highland Harmony
- Nose: Honey, toffee, vanilla, pear
- Palate: Caramel, apple, citrus
- Finish: Spicy oak, roasted nuts
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Aberlour 12
Aromatic Allure: Aberfeldy 12 opens with a gentle sweetness, whispering notes of honey, caramel, and vanilla. It’s an invitation to a smooth and inviting experience, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Palatial Playground: Take a sip, and a creamy texture coats your tongue. Balanced sweetness unfolds, blending notes of caramel, crisp apple, and zesty citrus. Subtle touches of oak spice add warmth and depth, while a hint of smoke lingers in the background, adding intrigue.
Finishing Flourish: The finale leaves a lasting impression. It’s decently long, offering a satisfying warmth accompanied by hints of oak spice and roasted nuts. A gentle bite keeps it lively, without overpowering the other flavors.
The Verdict: Aberfeldy 12 strikes a harmonious balance, making it an enjoyable and reasonably priced single-malt Scotch. While not bursting with complex flavors, it offers a well-rounded experience that won’t overwhelm your palate. A few drops of water can enhance the aromas, making it even more approachable.
More Than Just “Reasonable”: Don’t underestimate its strength! Aberfeldy 12 holds its own against well-known brands, offering quality and character without breaking the bank.
So, raise a glass! If you’re looking for a smooth and approachable single-malt with a touch of intrigue, Aberfeldy 12 might be your perfect match.
Pro Tip: Experiment with adding water to personalize your experience and discover your ideal balance of sweetness and warmth.-coated version is still honest and informative while highlighting the positive aspects of Aberfeldy 12!
Dewar’s 12 The Ancestor: A Refreshing Sip with Hidden Depths
- Nose: Lime, orange, apricot, pear
- Palate: Lime, orange, caramel, vanilla
- Finish: Medium, oak spice, pepper
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Glenlivet 12
Nectar of the Citrus Groves: Dewar’s 12 The Ancestor opens with a vibrant medley of citrus fruits, dominated by zesty lime and juicy orange. A hint of sweet apricot and a touch of delicate pear add complexity, while a whisp of smoke lingers in the background, hinting at intriguing depths.
Flavorful Fiesta: Dive in, and your taste buds will be met with a party of flavors. The initial citrus zest mingles with creamy caramel, followed by the comforting warmth of vanilla and cinnamon. A touch of peppery spice keeps things lively, adding a playful kick.
Finishing Flourish: The finale isn’t long, but it leaves a pleasant impression. A gentle warmth spreads across your palate, accompanied by oak nuances, lingering peppery notes, and a faint echo of the smoky charm from the nose.
The Verdict: The improved Dewar’s 12 The Ancestor lives up to its name. It’s a more balanced and enjoyable expression than its predecessor, making it a worthy option for neat sipping, especially considering its budget-friendly price.
A splash of water can further amplify the caramel sweetness, offering a slightly different experience. While it might not be the most extraordinary whisky, it’s a solid choice for casual enjoyment and an upgrade from the standard Dewar’s commonly used in mixed drinks.
So, raise a glass! If you’re looking for a refreshing and affordable whisky with hints of complexity, Dewar’s 12 The Ancestor might be your new best friend. Just remember, your taste buds are unique, so explore and discover what delights you!
What do they have in common?
Dewar’s is a blend of 40-grain and single malt whiskies, aged for at least 12 years.
The majority of the single malt component comes from Aberfeldy, as both brands are owned by Bacardi, based in Bermuda.
How do they differ?
Aberfeldy is a Single Malt Scotch, crafted exclusively at a single distillery from malted barley.
In contrast, Dewar’s 12 is a blend of 40 whiskies sourced from various distilleries across Scotland.
It’s important to note that being a Single Malt doesn’t automatically make it superior to a blend.
For example, Johnnie Walker Blue Label, a blend, often outshines many Single Malts in terms of taste.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Aberfeldy 12 | $32 |
| Dewar’s 12 | $24 |