Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:13 am
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 Bushmills 10 vs Glenfiddich 12 in this in-depth comparison and decide which Whiskey-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
Bushmills 10 vs Glenfiddich 12: Comparison
Bushmills 10 Irish Whiskey: Offers honey, ripe fruit on the nose, and a palate of banana, honey, and spices. Finish with chocolate, oak. Drinks neat. Smooth, approachable.
Glenfiddich 12: Starts with floral, honey nose, pear, and oak on the palate. Ends with a pear, oak finish. Best with water. Gentle, perfect for newcomers.
Verdict: Both Bushmills 10 and Glenfiddich 12 shine for their smooth, inviting profiles, appealing to novices and casual drinkers alike, each presenting a unique entry into their respective whiskey worlds, states spirits expert Neil Coleman.
Choose based on budget and preferred tasting notes.
Related: Smooth Single Malts
Exploring Smooth Sips: Bushmills 10 Irish Whiskey
- Nose: Honey, ripe fruit, baking spice
- Palate: Banana, honey, cinnamon, clove
- Finish: Medium, milk chocolate, oak spice
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Bushmills Black Bush
Bushmills 10 is a popular choice for those seeking a smooth and easy-drinking Irish whiskey experience.
Aromatic Delights
The aroma opens with a delightful blend of honey, followed by fruity notes like banana and mango. A touch of baking spice adds complexity, with the alcohol presence initially noticeable but fading over time.
Sweet & Spicy on the Palate
The initial taste is of ripe fruits and honey, transitioning to a combination of cinnamon, clove, and subtle oak spice. The finish lingers pleasantly with notes of milk chocolate and oak spice, leaving a minimal warming sensation. Allowing the whiskey to rest and adding a drop of water can further enhance its taste.
A Welcoming Introduction to Irish Whiskey
Bushmills 10 embodies the classic Irish whiskey profile: smooth, subtle, and sweet. While it might not be the most complex dram, it offers an approachable and enjoyable experience.
Easy Drinking at an Affordable Price
This triple-distilled single malt whiskey, aged mainly in bourbon barrels with some sherry casks, is perfect for enjoying neat or with a dash of water. Its affordability makes it a great option for casual whiskey drinkers and newcomers to Irish whiskey.
Bushmills 10: Key Facts
- Made exclusively from malted barley, making it a single malt whiskey.
- Aged primarily in bourbon barrels with some sherry casks.
- Triple-distilled for a smooth taste.
- Awarded a Double Gold Medal at the 2009 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
- Crafted at the Bushmills Distillery in Northern Ireland, owned by Jose Cuervo.
Glenfiddich 12: Smooth and Affordable
- 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: Glenlivet 12
Glenfiddich 12 is a popular choice for those starting their single malt Scotch journey. Its approachable character makes it a welcoming first step, offering a pleasant and smooth experience.
A Fruity and Gentle Introduction
The nose greets you with delicate floral and fruity notes, hinting at honey. The taste unfolds with a gentle sweetness, featuring pear and oak flavors. The finish is smooth and refreshing, leaving lingering hints of pear and oak.
Exploring Complexity Later
While Glenfiddich 12 lacks the complexity sought by seasoned whisky drinkers, its straightforward and easy-drinking nature makes it perfect for beginners. It’s free from harshness or smoke, allowing you to appreciate the subtle nuances of single malt Scotch.
A Reliable Choice for Newcomers
As the top-selling single malt globally, Glenfiddich 12 has earned its reputation as a trusted introduction to the exciting world of single malt whisky. It’s an affordable and smooth sip, perfect for those curious to explore this unique spirit.
Glenfiddich 12: Key Facts
- Aged for 12 years in used American oak and European sherry casks.
- Founded in 1887 by William Grant.
- Known for its smooth, creamy, and fruity profile.
- Owned by William Grant & Sons, a renowned spirits producer.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Bushmills 10 | $43 |
| Glenfiddich 12 | $36 |