Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 05:55 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.
In my detailed analysis, explore the contrasts between Aberlour 18 and Glenfiddich 18, and determine your preferred Single Malt!
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 18 vs Glenfiddich 18: Comparison
Aberlour 18: Sweet, balanced with caramel, honey, and fruit. Add water to enhance. Medium finish with sherry warmth. Ideal for lovers of sweet Speyside Scotches with a light body.
Glenfiddich 18: Smooth, fruity with apple, honey, and spices. Best enjoyed neat. Short finish with sherry notes. Suitable for those new to Scotch or preferring gentle, approachable malts.
Verdict: Aberlour 18 caters to those seeking a sweet, slightly sherry-touched dram. Glenfiddich 18 is for enthusiasts desiring a smooth, easy-sipping experience with fruity sweetness, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top-Ranked 18-Year Single Malts
Aberlour 18: A Sweet and Balanced Speyside Scotch
- Nose: Caramel, raisins, honey, vanilla
- Palate: Apple, orange, raisin, chocolate
- Finish: Medium, caramel, oak, sherry
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
The Aberlour 18 boasts a sweet and inviting aroma, filled with notes of caramel, honey, vanilla, and raisins.
On the palate, the whisky presents fruity flavors of apple and orange, followed by hints of raisins, chocolate, and vanilla. While it could be slightly richer in body, the subtle oakiness adds a pleasant touch.
The finish lingers with a medium length, offering a warming spice note and a pleasant aftertaste of caramel, oak, and sherry.
Key characteristics:
- Aged in bourbon barrels and Spanish oak Oloroso sherry casks (artificially colored)
- Sweet aroma with notes of caramel, honey, and vanilla
- Fruity and slightly light-bodied with hints of oak
- Medium-length finish with a warming spice and a touch of sherry
A good choice for:
- Fans of sweet and balanced Scotches
- Those seeking a fruity and slightly lighter-bodied dram
- Enjoyers of Speysides with a touch of sherry influence
Additional facts:
- Earned Double Gold Medals at the SF World Spirits Competition in 2011 and 2012
- Received 91 points from Whisky Advocate
- Produced in Aberlour, Scotland
Looking for a sweet and approachable Speyside with a touch of sherry character? The Aberlour 18 might be worth exploring.
Glenfiddich 18: A Smooth and Approachable Single Malt Scotch
- Nose: Apple, citrus, cinnamon, oak
- Palate: Nuts, ripe fruit, honey, baking spice
- Finish: Short, sherry, oak
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
The Glenfiddich 18 offers a taste profile that is fruity and sweet, with hints of apple, cinnamon, oak, and citrus. Its smooth and gentle texture makes it easy to drink, even for those new to Scotch.
While the finish may be short and slightly dry, it still offers a touch of sherry and oak, adding depth to the flavor.
Key characteristics:
- Aged in Oloroso Sherry casks and bourbon barrels
- Sweet and fruity with hints of apple, cinnamon, and oak
- Smooth and easy to drink
- Shorter finish with a touch of sherry and oak
A good choice for:
- Those who enjoy smooth and approachable Scotch
- Those who prefer fruity and sweet flavors
- Newcomers to the world of single malt whisky
Additional facts:
- Earned Gold medals at the 2014 International Spirits Challenge and the 2014 International Wine & Spirits Competition
- Produced by Glenfiddich, the world’s best-selling single malt Scotch
Looking for a single malt that is easy to drink and enjoyable? The Glenfiddich 18 might be the perfect choice for you.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Aberlour 18 | $160 |
| Glenfiddich 18 | $130 |