Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:30 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.
Explore the distinctions between Dewar’s 15 and Dewar’s 18 in this comprehensive review and determine which whisky suits you best!
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
Dewar’s 15 vs Dewar’s 18: Comparison
Dewar’s 15 The Monarch: Offers a harmonious blend of apple, honey, and cinnamon with a short, dry finish. A light and smooth whisky.
Dewar’s 18: Begins with aromas of fresh bread and cherries, leading to a palate of oak and sour apples, finishing short with smoke and oak spice. Subtler and more refined.
Verdict: Dewar’s 15 is appreciated for its approachability and smoothness, making it a solid choice for those seeking a gentle introduction to Scotch whisky. Dewar’s 18, on the other hand, offers a nuanced experience with its additional aging, appealing to those who prefer a subtler, refined taste although it is not the top choice in terms of value, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
While each has its merits, personal preference and the occasion will guide your choice.
Related: Best 15-Year Scotch Whiskies
Dewar’s 15 Year Old: A Smooth and Inviting Scotch Whisky
- Nose: Apple, honey, pear, caramel
- Palate: Pear, honey, cinnamon, orange
- Finish: Short, dry, fruity, honey
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Dewar’s 12
Looking for a gentle introduction to the world of Scotch whisky? Look no further than Dewar’s 15 Year Old. This blend offers a light, approachable, and undeniably smooth sipping experience.
Warm Spice & Fruity Invitation
The aroma opens with a delightful dance of warming spices like cinnamon, alongside sweet orchard fruits like apple and pear. A touch of honey adds a touch of sweetness, all balanced with a subtle hint of classic Scotch character. This inviting scent hints at a smooth and enjoyable dram to come.
Silky Smoothness & Balanced Flavors
The first sip lives up to the promise. Dewar’s 15 coats your tongue with a silky smoothness, carrying flavors of ripe apples, pears, and a delicate honey sweetness. The warming cinnamon spice from the nose returns, adding a pleasant and lingering touch.
Crisp Finish & Easy Drinking
The finish is crisp and clean, leaving a refreshing feeling on the palate. While not the most complex Scotch, its straightforward and easy-drinking nature makes it a perfect choice for any occasion.
New to Scotch? Give it a Try!
If you’re new to Scotch or simply prefer smooth and easy-drinking options, Dewar’s 15 Year Old is a great choice. It’s versatile enough to enjoy neat, on the rocks, or even in classic cocktails.
Unique Smoothness & Perfect Pairings
While there are other blended Scotches in this price range, Dewar’s 15 offers a distinctly smooth experience with its own unique charm. For an extra treat, pair this whisky with a fruit-forward dessert like apple pie or a citrusy cake – the flavors will complement each other beautifully!
Key Facts:
- Blended Scotch whisky made from up to 40 different whiskies
- Aged in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks before final marrying in oak casks
Dewar’s 18 Year Old: A Uniquely Festive Scotch Whisky
- Nose: Fresh bread, cherries, orange, baking spice
- Palate: Oak, sour apples, ripe fruit, peat
- Finish: Short, smoke, oak spice
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Johnnie Walker 18
Craving a Scotch that evokes the warmth and cheer of the holidays? Look no further than Dewar’s 18 Year Old. This unique blend offers a lighter body but boasts a surprisingly festive aroma and interesting flavor profile.
Christmas Cake in a Glass
The first whiff of Dewar’s 18 takes you on a delightful journey. Imagine the inviting aroma of freshly baked bread, studded with juicy cherries and orange zest, all dusted with warming spices like cinnamon and clove. This intriguing scent sets the stage for a truly unique sipping experience.
Lighter Body, Complex Flavors
While the body is lighter than some Scotches, the flavor profile is surprisingly complex. You’ll find notes of aged oak mingling with subtle hints of ripe fruit. There’s a touch of sourness from apples, adding a unique character, balanced by a faint whisper of peaty smoke – a reminder of the classic Scotch influence.
Clean Finish, Pleasant Warmth
The finish is clean and short, leaving a gentle lingering warmth from the oak and a hint of peppery spice. It might not linger for long, but it provides a pleasant conclusion to the overall experience.
A Conversation Starter
This Scotch might not be your go-to dram for powerful complexity. However, if you enjoy lighter Scotches with intriguing nuances and a festive aroma, Dewar’s 18 is a delightful exploration. It’s perfect for sipping by the fire on a chilly evening and sparking conversation with fellow whisky enthusiasts.
A World of Scotch to Explore
While Dewar’s 18 offers a unique charm, some might prefer a fuller-bodied Scotch with more pronounced flavors. Remember, the best Scotch is the one you enjoy the most! So, keep exploring and experimenting until you find your perfect dram.
Key Facts:
- Blended Scotch whisky with single malts and grain whiskies
- Aged in American oak casks before final blending
- Dewar’s is owned by Bacardi
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Dewar’s 15 | $37 |
| Dewar’s 18 | $49 |