Cragganmore 12 vs Oban 14

Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 08:42 pm

Discover the differences between Cragganmore 12 vs Oban 14 in this in-depth 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 Oban 14: Which to Buy?

Cragganmore 12: A smooth Speyside single malt with a blend of citrus, caramel, and a hint of smoke. It offers a medium finish with oak and caramel notes. Best enjoyed with a dash of water to enhance its sweet and gentle character. Recognized for its quality with 94 points at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge.

Oban 14: A balanced single malt featuring ripe fruit, a touch of smoke, and a long finish with oak and baking spice. Adding water brings out its sweetness and smoothness. A perfect choice for those appreciating a moderate smoky flavor, aged in ex-bourbon barrels. Awarded a Gold Medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition.

Verdict: If your preference leans towards a more traditional, sweet Speyside malt with the option to explore subtle complexities, Cragganmore 12 is your go-to. However, for those intrigued by the addition of a smoky dimension to a fruit-forward profile, Oban 14 offers a compelling experience with its unique balance, making it worth the extra cost, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Cragganmore 12: A Sweet & Gentle Speyside Single Malt

• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Glenfiddich 12

Fruity & Peaty Aroma:

Cragganmore 12 opens with a warm and inviting nose, offering orange, lemon, and a subtle hint of peat smoke. The taste is full-bodied and smooth, presenting sweetness with bready malt, a touch of spice, and a hint of biscuit.

Gentle & Warming Finish:

The finish is smooth and gentle, leaving a pleasant warmth and oaky notes.

A Speyside Delight:

This Speyside single malt showcases a floral and sweet profile, distinguished by a subtle hint of peat smoke. It’s suitable for both beginners and those familiar with single malts.

Enhanced with Water:

Adding a dash of water unlocks more sweetness, fruitiness, and reduces spiciness, further enhancing the flavor profile.

Cragganmore 12 in a Nutshell:

• Aged for 12 years in second-fill bourbon casks.
• Awarded 94 points at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge.
• Earned multiple medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
• Speyside single malt from Ballindalloch, Scotland.
• Founded in 1869 by John Smith, currently owned by Diageo.

Oban 14: Perfectly Balanced Smoke & Sweetness

• Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Balvenie 14

Fruity & Smoky Aroma:

Oban 14 offers an inviting nose with ripe fruit, citrus peel, and a subtle hint of smoke. On the palate, it’s creamy and smooth, showcasing dried fruit, pear, apple, and baking spices with a gentle smoky touch.

Long & Warming Finish:

The finish is long and warm, lingering with oak, baking spice, and a touch of salt.

Moderately Smoky Delight:

Oban 14 presents a well-balanced smokiness alongside other flavors, making it ideal for those who enjoy a moderate smoke level compared to Islay whiskies. It’s a delightful and easy-sipping dram, enjoyable neat or with a splash of water for enhanced sweetness and oak notes.

Bourbon Influence & Choice for Bourbon Lovers:

Aged in ex-bourbon barrels, Oban 14 exhibits bourbon-like characteristics. If you appreciate bourbon flavors with a hint of smoke, Oban 14 offers the best of both worlds.

Oban 14 in a Nutshell:

• Aged 14 years in ex-bourbon barrels.
• Gold Medal winner at the International Wine & Spirit Competition.
• One of Scotland’s smallest distilleries, dating back to 1794.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whisky	Price
Cragganmore 12	$75
Oban 14	$95