Last Updated on: 11th April 2024, 03:12 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 Aberlour 12 vs Highland Park 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
Aberlour 12 vs Highland Park 12: Comparison
Aberlour 12: A smooth Speyside scotch with a sweet and spicy palette. Boasts honey, toffee, and a hint of smoke for a balanced and inviting sip. Ideal with a drop of water to enhance its flavors.
Highland Park 12: A gentle introduction to peaty whisky, combining floral notes with a subtle smokiness. Offers a light and sweet taste, perfect for those new to peat. Water brings out its depth without overwhelming.
Verdict: Aberlour 12 and Highland Park 12 both offer delightful tasting experiences. Aberlour 12 excels with its rich sweetness and spice, while Highland Park 12 provides a softer, floral introduction to peaty whiskies. Each stands out for its approachability and nuanced character, catering to both novices and aficionados alike, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: 12-Year-Old Single Malts
Aberlour 12: Sweet Spice & Hints of Smoke, Easy on the Palate
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Aberfeldy 12
Craving a smooth Speyside with a touch of smokiness? Aberlour 12 might be your perfect match. Here’s why:
Nose: Imagine raisins, baking spices, and a hint of campfire smoke, creating a warm and inviting aroma.
Taste: First sip, you’ll be greeted by a creamy mouthfeel and a satisfying burst of spice, perfectly balanced. Then, caramel takes center stage, joined by nutmeg and a lingering oak char.
Finish: Decent length, with notes of dark chocolate and cinnamon. The oak char hangs around, but it’s not overbearing.
Bonus: Add a drop of water for more caramel, but watch out – the oak gets stronger too!
My Take: Aberlour 12 is a solid Speyside with a balanced character. It’s rich, sweet, and smooth, making it approachable and enjoyable. Plus, the unique bottle design is a nice bonus!
Good to know:
- Aged in ex-bourbon and sherry casks, giving it complexity.
- Founded in 1879 by James Fleming, motto: “Let the deed show.”
- Located in Aberlour, Scotland, near the River Spey.
- Owned by Pernod Ricard, makers of Chivas Regal and Glenlivet.
Final verdict: If you’re looking for a smooth and flavorful Speyside with a hint of smokiness, Aberlour 12 is a great choice. It’s easy to drink, interesting, and sure to leave a lasting impression. Cheers!
Highland Park 12: Floral & Sweet, But Don’t Expect Smoke Bombs
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Bunnahabhain 12
Looking for a peaty whisky that’s easy on the palate? Highland Park 12 might be your gateway dram. Here’s the scoop:
Nose: Imagine a bouquet of wildflowers with a hint of citrus and honey sweetness. Subtle smoke hangs in the background, but it’s more like a campfire ember than a bonfire.
Taste: It’s smooth and light, some might say a bit thin. Sweetness takes center stage with honey and a touch of iodine, but the smoky notes are shy.
Finish: Moderately sweet with a peppery kick, but it fades out quickly, leaving a touch of oak behind. Add a drop of water, and the sweetness gets amped up with some interesting meaty notes joining the party.
Good for beginners? Absolutely! If you’re curious about peaty whiskies but intimidated by the heavy smoke bombs, Highland Park 12 offers a gentle introduction. It’s like a gateway drug, leading you to smokier pastures later.
But is it exciting? Not exactly. Compared to other whiskies, it might feel a bit bland. It’s a solid choice for beginners, but seasoned whisky drinkers might find it lacking in complexity.
Bonus facts:
- Aged in sherry casks, giving it that sweetness.
- No artificial coloring, just pure barley and water.
- Made in the far north of Scotland, since 1798!
Final verdict: Highland Park 12 is a decent entry-level peaty whisky, perfect for dipping your toes into the smoky world. Just remember, it’s more like a gentle campfire than a full-blown inferno. Cheers!
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Aberlour 12 | $53 |
| Highland Park 12 | $55 |