Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 12:56 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 Chivas Regal 12 vs Jameson In this in-depth comparison and decide which Whiskey 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
Chivas Regal vs Jameson: Comparison
Chivas 12: A classic blended Scotch with apple and vanilla on the nose, and a light, peppery finish. Best enjoyed in highball cocktails.
Jameson: A smooth, affordable Irish whiskey with floral aromas and a sweet, vanilla palate. Versatile in cocktails.
Verdict: Chivas 12 offers a refined blend for cocktail enthusiasts, perfect for those who appreciate the legacy and versatility of Scotch. Jameson stands out for its smoothness and value, making it a favorite for both casual sipping and mixed drinks. Each whiskey provides a distinct experience, catering to different preferences, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Cheap Scotch Whisky Top Picks
Chivas 12: A Blended Scotch Classic
- Nose: Apple, vanilla, lemon curd
- Palate: Apple, malt, oak, caramel, pepper
- Finish: Short, pepper, bitter
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Highball
- Similar to: Glenlivet 12
A Legacy of Popularity:
Chivas 12 holds a special place in the hearts of many, particularly among the boomer generation in the US and in Latin America, where it’s seen as a symbol of prestige.
Flavor Exploration:
The aroma offers a signature Chivas note of apple juice, alongside hints of vanilla and lemon curd. The taste is light-bodied with delicate oak, caramel, and subtle green apple, cinnamon, and black pepper. The finish is short and light, with a touch of pepper and warmth, lacking any harshness.
A Mixing Marvel:
While Chivas 12 might not boast exceptional qualities on its own, it also avoids any major drawbacks. While I find it a bit peppery neat, it shines in highball cocktails. The blend offers a complete Scotch whisky experience at an attractive price point.
Not the Smoothest, But a Mixing Master:
Chivas 12 might not be the smoothest choice for sipping neat, but it excels in highballs and mixed drinks, showcasing its versatility and value as a blended Scotch whisky.
Chivas Regal 12 Facts:
- Blend of grain and malt whiskies aged at least 12 years.
- Crafted in undisclosed distilleries across Scotland.
In Conclusion:
Chivas 12 remains a popular choice for its affordability, well-rounded flavor profile, and historical significance. While it may not be the most complex whisky, it offers a reliable and approachable blended Scotch experience, particularly when used in cocktails.
Jameson: The Smooth and Affordable Irish Whiskey
- Nose: Floral, marmalade, caramel
- Palate: Ripe fruit, vanilla
- Finish: Medium, caramel, spice
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Proper Twelve
Why it’s Popular:
Jameson’s reign as the top-selling Irish whiskey isn’t a fluke. It’s both smooth and budget-friendly, making it a great value choice for casual drinkers or those seeking an affordable, decent experience.
Flavor Profile:
The aroma is floral with hints of orange marmalade and caramel, with a subtle alcohol presence. The taste is sweet and fruity with a dominant vanilla note, followed by a slightly metallic touch. The finish is medium-length, sweet, and ends with a hint of black pepper.
Smooth & Versatile:
Jameson’s smoothness and versatility are its hallmarks. It mixes well in cocktails and lacks any harshness. A splash of water, ginger ale, or ice can further enhance its appeal, especially if you find the metallic note or peppery finish undesirable.
Jameson Facts:
- Aged at least 4 years in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks.
- Triple-distilled, contributing to its smooth character.
In Summary:
Jameson is a solid choice for those seeking a smooth, affordable Irish whiskey for sipping or mixing. While it has some unique characteristics like the metallic note, its versatility and ease-of-drinking make it a popular option for many.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Chivas Regal 12 | $27 |
| Jameson | $20 |