Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 01:26 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 Glen Grant 12 vs Glenfiddich 12 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
Glen Grant 12 vs Glenfiddich 12: Which to Buy?
Glen Grant 12: Sweet, fruity aroma with honey and vanilla. Smooth, creamy taste with a short, oaky finish. Ideal for Scotch beginners.
Glenfiddich 12: Floral and ripe fruit nose with a sweet, fruity palate. Smooth with a medium finish of pear and oak. A gentle introduction to Scotch.
Verdict: Both whiskies offer a smooth, approachable experience. Glen Grant 12 shines for its sweet, creamy profile, while Glenfiddich 12 is noted for its gentle, fruity character.
Choose based on tasting notes and budget, suggests whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Smooth and Easy to Drink Single Malts
Glen Grant 12: A Smooth and Approachable Single Malt
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Jack Daniel’s
Glen Grant 12 offers a sweet and inviting aroma with hints of honey, vanilla, apple, and apricot. On the palate, it’s smooth and creamy with flavors of apple and vanilla, followed by subtle hints of cinnamon and roasted almond. The finish is short and smooth with a touch of oak spice and lemon peel.
Great for:
- Newcomers to Scotch – Easy-drinking with no harshness.
- Those who enjoy fruity and sweet whiskies.
Things to keep in mind:
- The finish is relatively short compared to some other single malts.
- May be considered too simple by experienced Scotch drinkers seeking more complexity.
Tip: A few drops of water can enhance the flavor profile, but adding too much can mute it.
Overall, Glen Grant 12 is a solid choice for those new to Scotch or those who prefer a smooth and easy-drinking whisky.
Glenfiddich 12: A Beginner-Friendly Single Malt Scotch
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Cragganmore 12
Gentle and inviting, Glenfiddich 12 offers a pleasant introduction to the world of single malt Scotch whisky.
What to expect:
- Nose: Delicate floral notes with hints of fruit and honey.
- Taste: Smooth and sweet with fruity flavors, a touch of pear, and subtle oak.
- Finish: Short and smooth, leaving a lingering pear and oak impression.
Great for:
- Newcomers to Scotch seeking a friendly intro.
- Those who prefer smooth and mellow whiskies.
Things to keep in mind:
- May be considered mild or simple by experienced Scotch drinkers.
- Lacks the complexity found in some other single malts.
Overall, Glenfiddich 12 is a solid and affordable choice for those new to the world of Scotch whisky. Its smooth and easy-drinking nature makes it a popular choice for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike.**
Fun facts:
- Aged in a combination of used American oak and European sherry oak casks.
- Founded in 1887, Glenfiddich is the world’s best-selling single malt Scotch whisky.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky/Whiskey | Price |
| Glen Grant 12 | $51 |
| Glenfiddich 12 | $36 |