Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:00 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 in this in-depth comparison and decide which 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: Comparison
Aberfeldy 12: Offers a balance of honey, caramel, and fruit, with a creamy texture and a spicy, nutty finish. A versatile and approachable single malt.
Dewar’s White Label: A smooth blend with honey, cereal, and a hint of smoke, leading to a caramel and oak spice finish. Great for cocktails or neat.
Verdict: Aberfeldy 12 and Dewar’s White Label cater to different tastes within the whisky world. Aberfeldy provides a rich, single malt experience, while Dewar’s offers versatility and smoothness in a blend, each delivering quality and enjoyment at their price points, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top-Rated Cheap Scotch List
Aberfeldy 12: Smooth Charm

- 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: Johnnie Walker Black Label
Craving a single malt journey without the hefty price tag? Aberfeldy 12 might be your golden ticket. This approachable whisky offers a delightful, well-rounded experience for both veterans and newcomers to the single malt world.
Sweet Symphony on the Nose:
Close your eyes and inhale. A captivating blend of honey, caramel, vanilla, and pear dances on your senses, hinting at the smooth journey ahead.
Creamy Delight on the Palate:
Take a sip and prepare to be pampered. A luxuriously creamy mouthfeel delivers a rich sweetness of caramel, perfectly balanced by hints of apple, citrus, and subtle oak spice. A whisper of smoke adds depth, making things even more interesting.
Lingering Warmth with a Twist:
The finish is decent in length, leaving behind a gentle warming sensation, some lingering oak spice, and a touch of roasted nuts. It might not be an explosion of flavors, but its pleasantness lingers, making you reach for another sip.
More Than Just a Beginner’s Dram:
Don’t underestimate Aberfeldy 12’s versatility. While it shines as an introductory single malt, offering a balanced and approachable experience, adding a few drops of water unlocks even more complexity, enhancing the aromas and tempering any warmth or spice. This little tweak can even elevate it to stand up favorably against more renowned brands.
The Verdict: Smooth Sailing for Your Palate:
Aberfeldy 12 might not win awards for the most audacious flavor profile, but that’s precisely its charm. It’s a smooth, enjoyable, and wallet-friendly single malt that delivers a satisfying experience. Consider it your gateway to the wonderful world of single malts, or a reliable companion for seasoned drinkers seeking a balanced and approachable dram.
Ready to embark on your Aberfeldy adventure? Cheers!
Dewar’s White Label: A Surprisingly Smooth Sip that Won’t Break the Bank

- Nose: Apple, peach, oak
- Palate: Honey, cereal, vanilla, smoke, oak
- Finish: Caramel, vanilla, oak spice
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Famous Grouse
Looking for a smooth and approachable Scotch whisky without the hefty price tag? Look no further than Dewar’s White Label. This popular blend punches above its weight, offering a delightful experience for beginners and seasoned drinkers alike.
A Gentle Introduction to Scotch:
Forget the harsh bite sometimes associated with budget-friendly whiskies. Dewar’s White Label is surprisingly smooth and sweet, making it an easy entry point into the world of Scotch. Think subtle notes of apple, peach, and barley with a hint of honey and oak on the nose.
Sweet Satisfaction on the Palate:
Take a sip and prepare to be charmed. Flavors of honey, caramel, and vanilla dance on your tongue, balanced by toasted barley and a touch of smoky goodness. The finish is short and warming, leaving behind a pleasant linger of caramel, oak, and a hint of spice.
Beyond the Neat Pour:
While Dewar’s White Label shines neat or on the rocks, its versatility is another bonus. It’s a popular choice in the US for a reason – it makes fantastic cocktails! Whether you’re a mixology master or just starting out, this budget-friendly dram elevates your creations without breaking the bank.
A Few Drops of Delight:
Want to unlock even more flavor? Adding a few drops of water opens up the floral notes, making the experience even more enjoyable.
So, Is It Good?
Absolutely! Dewar’s White Label is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. It’s smooth, approachable, and packed with flavor, making it a fantastic choice for those new to Scotch or seasoned drinkers looking for a great value pour. Plus, its versatility for cocktails adds another layer to its appeal.
Ready to give Dewar’s White Label a try? You won’t be disappointed.
What do Aberfeldy 12 and Dewar’s have in common?
Unlike Aberfeldy, which is a single malt produced solely at a single distillery, Dewar’s is a blend of grain and malt whiskies sourced from various distilleries across Scotland.
A significant portion of the malt whiskies used in Dewar’s blend is sourced from Aberfeldy, as both brands are owned by Bacardi, a Bermuda-based company.
Bacardi is a prominent player in the spirits industry and also owns well-known brands like Patron Tequila and Grey Goose Vodka.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Aberfeldy 12 | $32 |
| Dewar’s | $20 |
