Glen Grant 18 vs Glenfiddich 18

Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 06:33 pm

Uncover the distinctions between Glen Grant 18 and Glenfiddich 18 in this comprehensive comparison, empowering you to decide which Single Malt best suits your preferences!

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 18 vs Glenfiddich 18: Comparison

Glen Grant 18: Honey and floral notes lead to a palate of fruit, spice, and caramel, with a medium finish of pear and oak spice. An award-winning, smooth sipper.

Glenfiddich 18: Fresh aromas of apple and cinnamon give way to a sweet, smooth palate, ending in a short finish with sherry and oak. A straightforward, approachable dram.

Verdict: Glen Grant 18 and Glenfiddich 18 each offer their own distinct, smooth experiences. Glen Grant 18 is noted for its complexity and balance, while Glenfiddich 18 provides an easy, sweet, and accessible taste. Both represent excellent choices for those seeking quality aged whiskies, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Smooth 18-Year-Old Scotch Whiskies

A Look at Glen Grant 18 Year Old

• Nose: Honey, caramel, floral, ripe fruit
• Palate: Floral, fruit, spice, caramel, oak
• Finish: Medium, pear, caramel, oak spice
• Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat

Sweet and Fragrant Aroma:

Glen Grant 18 opens with a pleasing aroma of honey, complemented by fruity notes of apple and pear. A subtle hint of caramel and floral undertones add complexity to the scent, making it appealing to a wide range of palates.

Smooth and Balanced Palate:

The whisky has a decently oily texture, creating a smooth and enjoyable mouthfeel. The floral notes carry over from the nose, accompanied by familiar flavors of apple, pear, and caramel. Hints of black pepper and ginger add a subtle kick of spice, while oak undertones provide a balancing touch of dryness.

Moderate Finish with Lingering Notes:

The finish is of moderate length, leaving behind lingering hints of pear, caramel, and oak spice. While not the longest finish, it allows the various flavor elements to fade gracefully.

Easy Drinking with a Caveat:

Glen Grant 18 is a smooth and approachable whisky that can be enjoyed effortlessly. It lacks bold or challenging notes like peat, making it an easy sipper. However, it’s important to note that some may find it lacking in complexity or distinct character compared to other whiskies.

Glen Grant 18: A Few Key Points:

• Awarded “Scotch Whisky of the Year” in Jim Murray’s 2017 Whisky Bible.
• Aged in traditional oak casks.
• Founded in 1840 by John and James Grant.
• Hailing from the Speyside region of Scotland.
• Owned by Milan-based Campari.

Overall, Glen Grant 18 presents a good option for those seeking a simple, smooth, and easy-drinking whisky experience. While it may not offer the depth of some other expressions, its approachable nature makes it a solid choice for casual enjoyment or as an introductory dram for newcomers to the world of whisky.

A Look at Glenfiddich 18-Year-Old

• Nose: Apple, citrus, cinnamon, oak
• Palate: Nuts, ripe fruit, honey, baking spice
• Finish: Short, sherry, oak
• Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat

Fresh and Fruity Aroma:

Glenfiddich 18 opens with a light and inviting aroma of apple juice, followed by subtle notes of cinnamon, oak, and citrus. This appealing scent makes it easy to appreciate for both seasoned whisky drinkers and newcomers alike.

Sweet and Smooth Palate:

The taste is sweet and fruity, offering a pleasant experience without being overpowering. Hints of roasted apple and honey add depth, while the smooth and gentle texture makes it easy to sip.

Short but Characterful Finish:

The finish is slightly short and may feel a bit dry to some. However, it does offer a subtle hint of sherry and a touch of oak, adding a touch of character to the overall experience. Adding a drop of water can sometimes help extend the finish slightly.

A Straightforward and Approachable Dram:

Glenfiddich 18 strikes a good balance between the woodiness of the barrels and the sweetness preserved through careful aging. This results in a smooth and easy-drinking whisky.

Key points to remember:

• This single malt lacks strong flavors like smokiness, peat, or complex notes, making it ideal for those who prefer a straightforward and enjoyable dram.
• It is aged in Oloroso Sherry casks and bourbon barrels, contributing to its unique profile.
• As one of the more affordable 18-year-old single malts on the market, Glenfiddich 18 presents an excellent option for those seeking value and approachability in their whisky experience.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whisky	Price
Glen Grant 18	$140
Glenfiddich 18	$115