Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 08:49 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 Cragganmore 12 vs Dalwhinnie 15 in this head-to-head comparison and decide which Single Malt 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
Cragganmore 12 vs Dalwhinnie 15: Head-to-Head
Cragganmore 12: A Speyside scotch with character. Flavors of citrus, caramel, and a kiss of smoke. Full-bodied and smooth with a gentle, oaky finish. Enhances with water. 80 proof.
Dalwhinnie 15: Sweet and approachable with honey, pear, and subtle smoke. Light with ripe fruit and spices, finishing with toasted malt. Best enjoyed with water. 86 proof.
Comparison: Cragganmore 12 offers a unique blend of Speyside sweetness and subtle smoke, while Dalwhinnie 15 is known for its smooth, sweet character with a lighter touch. Both are excellent for those seeking a refined scotch experience, with Dalwhinnie slightly higher in price, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Speyside Whisky Top Picks
Cragganmore 12: A Speyside Scotch with a Hint of Smoke
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
Cragganmore 12 greets you with a warm and inviting aroma of orange, lemon, and a touch of peat smoke. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and smooth, offering a delightful mix of caramel sweetness, bready malt, and a hint of spice and biscuit. The finish is gentle, smooth, and leaves a pleasant warmth with lingering oaky notes.
Cragganmore stands out with its unique combination of Speyside sweetness – think floral and fruity notes – and a subtle hint of peat smoke. This makes it a great choice for both whisky beginners and experienced drinkers alike.
Want to explore its full potential? Add a small amount of water. This helps the whisky “open up,” revealing more sweetness and fruitiness while balancing out the spice.
Keep in mind: Cragganmore 12 is a bit pricier for a 12-year-old malt and has a lower alcohol content (40% ABV) compared to some whiskies.
Cragganmore 12 facts:
- Aged in used bourbon casks for 12 years.
- Awarded 94 points at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge.
- Won multiple awards at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
- Located in Speyside, Scotland, and founded in 1869.
Dalwhinnie 15: A Sweet and Smooth Single Malt Whisky
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
Aromatic and approachable, Dalwhinnie 15 welcomes you with a delightful honeyed scent and hints of pear, apple, and a subtle touch of smoke.
On the taste, it might feel lighter, but it still delivers pleasant ripe fruit notes with a whisper of nutmeg and cinnamon. The finish lingers nicely, leaving a satisfying taste of toasted malt and roasted nuts. It’s easy to drink, though it may not be as warming as some whiskies.
Want to unlock more flavor? Add a drop of water! This simple trick releases the whisky’s fragrant qualities, intensifies its sweetness, and brings out oaky undertones.
Is it good? While Dalwhinnie 15 might not boast complex layers of flavor, it offers a smooth and approachable experience. It lacks harshness, smoke, or peat, making it a safe bet for those who prefer a fuss-free dram.
Looking for a light and easy-drinking single malt? Dalwhinnie 15 is a great choice, especially for those new to the world of whisky.
Bonus facts:
- Aged for 15 years in ex-bourbon barrels.
- Founded in 1897, Dalwhinnie Distillery is in the Scottish Highlands.
- With only 2 stills, it’s one of the UK’s smallest distilleries.
- Sitting at 1,154 ft, Dalwhinnie holds the title of Scotland’s highest distillery.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Cragganmore 12 | $75 |
| Dalwhinnie 15 | $80 |