Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:15 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 Ballantine’s 12 vs Chivas Regal 12 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
Ballantine’s 12 vs Chivas 12: Comparison
Ballantine’s 12: A wallet-friendly whisky with sweet vanilla and oak flavors. Smooth and approachable, suitable for beginners or casual sippers. Not overly complex but reliable and enjoyable.
Chivas 12: Friendly and versatile, best for cocktails. Offers apple, vanilla, and oak notes with a peppery finish. Smooth but lacks uniqueness neat. Budget-friendly and easy to mix.
Verdict: Ballantine’s 12 for straightforward sweetness, Chivas 12 for cocktail versatility. Both offer value and easy enjoyment, making them solid choices for various occasions, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Cheap Scotch Selected Whiskies
Ballantine’s 12: A Sweet & Solid Whisky, Easy on the Wallet
- Nose: Vanilla, oak
- Palate: Oak, vanilla, honey
- Finish: Oak spice, caramel
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Johnnie Walker Black Label
Ballantine’s 12 glides in with a gentle and unassuming nose. Think sweet vanilla, warm oak, and a whisper of alcohol, nothing to scare away new sailors. It’s simple, yet inviting.
On the sip, it has a satisfyingly solid body, like a friendly pat on the back. The flavors sing a familiar tune: oak leading the chorus, with vanilla and honey adding sweetness in harmony. Think of it as a classic rock ballad, easy to listen to and enjoy.
The finish is relatively short, like a quick bow after a song. A touch of oak spice adds a hint of bitterness, but a subtle caramel whisper saves the day, leaving a pleasant aftertaste.
So, is it an award-winning soloist? Probably not.
- It’s reliable and smooth, making it a good choice for beginners or casual whisky sippers.
- The slight bitterness on the finish might not impress die-hard fans, but a dash of water can help.
- It’s budget-friendly and offers a decent flavor profile without any nasty surprises.
- Think of it as a solid workhorse, not a flashy showstopper.
Here’s the lowdown:
- If you crave complexity, keep searching.
- But for a sweet, easy-drinking, and affordable dram, Ballantine’s 12 raises a glass.
- Add a touch of water if the finish feels too dry.
- It’s a no-nonsense whisky that gets the job done, no fancy footwork required.
Remember:
- It’s a good starting point for exploring the world of Scotch.
- It won’t break the bank and delivers a pleasant drinking experience.
- Cheers to uncomplicated enjoyment!
Chivas 12: A Friendly Whisky, Best for Cocktails
- Nose: Apple, vanilla, lemon curd
- Palate: Apple, malt, oak, caramel, pepper
- Finish: Short, pepper
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Highball
- Similar to: Glenlivet 12
Chivas Regal 12 sails in with a familiar and inviting nose. Imagine apple juice, warm vanilla, and sweet lemon curd mingling for a pleasant first impression. Not groundbreaking, but definitely welcoming.
On the sip, it’s light-bodied and smooth, like a gentle stream. Think oak playing the main melody, with caramel sweetness adding harmony. Subtle hints of green apple, cinnamon, and black pepper sprinkle in some interest, like playful notes in a folk song.
The finish is short and mellow, like the sun setting on a calm evening. A touch of peppery warmth lingers, but it’s not overpowering. Think of it as a friendly farewell wave.
So, is it a showstopper? Not quite.
- It’s reliable and easy-drinking, but lacks a unique personality.
- Neat, it might lean a bit peppery and slightly bitter, like a campfire ember.
- But mix it with soda, and it shines! Think a satisfying Scotch highball, perfect for unwinding.
Here’s the gist:
- Not the smoothest, but it gets the job done, especially in cocktails.
- Reasonably priced and approachable, making it a popular choice.
- Don’t expect fireworks, but it delivers a solid and familiar dram.
Remember:
- If you seek complex depth, explore further.
- But for a friendly and budget-conscious option, Chivas 12 raises a glass.
- Mix it up and see where the night takes you!
What do they have in common?
Both Chivas Regal and Ballantine’s are under the ownership of Pernod Ricard, a French company with a diverse portfolio encompassing various spirits, including Tequila, rum, vodka, and more.
Furthermore, Glenlivet, another renowned whisky brand, supplies malts that contribute to the blends crafted by Chivas Regal and Ballantine’s.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Ballantine’s 12 | $32 |
| Chivas Regal 12 | $37 |