Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 02:12 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.
Explore disparities between Bowmore 12 and Glenfiddich 12 in this detailed analysis to determine your next 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
Bowmore 12 vs Glenfiddich 12: Comparison
Bowmore 12: Offers a smoky yet approachable Islay profile with balanced notes of pineapple and citrus. Its gentle peat and short finish make it a welcoming introduction to Islay’s charm.
Glenfiddich 12: Delivers a smooth, fruity Speyside experience with a hint of oak. Its simplicity and approachability make it a staple for beginners.
Verdict: Bowmore 12 is an ideal starter for exploring Islay’s smoky whiskies, while Glenfiddich 12 serves as a gentle introduction to the fruity character of Speyside malts. Both provide quality experiences at their price points, catering to different preferences, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: My favorite 12-Year single malts
Bowmore 12: Unveiling Islay’s Smoky Charm
- Nose: Smoke, pineapple, orange
- Palate: Ripe fruit, honey, vanilla, iodine
- Finish: Short, smoke, mineral, charred oak
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Laphroaig 10
Bowmore 12’s nose offers a balance of rich smoke with subtle pineapple and citrus. The medium-bodied palate features ripe fruit and honey, followed by vanilla, Islay’s signature iodine, and gentle smoke.
The finish is short, leaving a touch of smoke, minerals, and charred oak notes. This tamer smoke makes it an excellent entry point for Islay beginners, as Bowmore uses less peat than some peers.
Some may find it simple, and a higher proof could enhance its intensity. Despite the short finish, it’s an enjoyable dram with no harshness.
Bowmore 12 Facts:
- Aged in ex-sherry & ex-bourbon casks
- Gold medal winner (2018 SF World Spirits Competition, 2013 IWSC)
- Hand-turns, malts, and peats its barley
- Founded in 1779 (Islay’s oldest, Scotland’s 2nd oldest)
Glenfiddich 12: A Gentle Speyside Introduction
- Nose: Floral, ripe fruit, honey
- Palate: Fruity sweetness, pear, oak
- Finish: Medium, pear, oak
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Dalmore 12
Glenfiddich 12 offers a delicate nose with floral and fruity hints of honey. The taste is smooth and medium-bodied, with prominent pear sweetness alongside subtle oak. The finish is short and smooth, leaving a gentle oak and pear aftertaste.
A straightforward and approachable dram, it’s ideal for beginners or those seeking a mild, fruity whisky. While seasoned enthusiasts might find it simple, this Speyside malt remains a reliable choice for starting your whisky exploration.
Glenfiddich 12 Facts:
- 12 years aged in ex-bourbon and sherry casks
- Founded in 1887 by William Grant
- World’s best-selling single malt
- Speyside whisky known for smooth, fruity character
- Owned by William Grant & Sons (Balvenie, Tullamore D.E.W., Monkey Shoulder)
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Bowmore 12 | $63 |
| Glenfiddich 12 | $52 |