Glen Grant 12 vs Jack Daniel's No. 7: Whiskey Comparison

Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 01:41 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 Jack Daniel’s in this head-to-head comparison and decide which Whiskey (Whisky) 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 vs Jack Daniel’s: Which to Buy?

Glen Grant 12: Offers a smooth, sweet introduction to Scotch with its honey, vanilla, and fruit notes. Its approachability and short, clean finish make it perfect for newcomers or those who prefer a gentler whisky.

Jack Daniel’s: Known for its unique charcoal mellowing process, it brings a distinct banana and oak profile. Best enjoyed in cocktails, it caters to those who appreciate a versatile whiskey with a bit of edge.

Conclusion: Glen Grant 12 appeals to Scotch enthusiasts looking for a subtle whisky character, while Jack Daniel’s suits those who look for an affordable whiskey to mix with Coke, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Glen Grant 12: An Easy-Drinking Whisky

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

Underrated Speyside: While not as famous as Macallan or Glenlivet, Glen Grant 12 offers a consistently enjoyable experience for whisky enthusiasts.

Sweet & Smooth: The aroma pleases with notes of honey, vanilla, apple, and apricot, hinting at a sweet and fruity taste.

Creamy Delight: The palate delivers on its promise, featuring creamy and fruity notes of apple and vanilla with hints of cinnamon and roasted almond.

Clean Finish: The finish is short and pleasant, leaving a touch of oak spice and lemon peel on the tongue.

Perfect for Beginners: With minimal heat and no unpleasant flavors, Glen Grant 12 is an ideal introduction to Scotch whisky.

Unlocking More Flavor: A drop or two of water can enhance the taste, but adding too much may dilute the experience.

Glen Grant 12: A Rich History

Aged for 12 years in ex-bourbon and ex-Spanish sherry casks, offering a complex flavor profile.
Founded in 1840 by brothers James and John Grant, former outlaws who turned legit.
Unique purification process: Glen Grant is the only Scottish distillery to use purifiers in both distillations, aiming for a fresher and maltier whisky.
Owned by the Campari Group, an Italian beverage company.

Jack Daniel’s: A Closer Look

Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Coca-Cola
Similar to: Jim Beam

Aroma: Jack Daniel’s offers a distinct aroma with notes of banana, brown sugar, and oak. Some may also pick up a touch of wood varnish.

Taste: It starts with a sweet flavor, but this quickly gives way to oak char bitterness.

Finish: The finish is short, with a peppery kick and a slightly lingering aftertaste.

Overall: While Jack Daniel’s holds a special place in many hearts, its oak char flavor might not be everyone’s favorite for sipping neat.

Tips: It shines in mixed drinks and cocktails, where it blends well with other flavors. Adding ice can also help tame the oaky heat.

Unique Twist: Unlike Bourbon, Jack Daniel’s undergoes a charcoal mellowing process, giving it a smoother character. Additionally, the aging process relies on the expertise of tasters who judge when the whiskey reaches its peak flavor.

Fun Fact: Jack Daniel’s is made primarily from corn, with a touch of barley and rye for added complexity.