Glenfiddich 12 vs Glenfiddich 14

Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 02:39 pm

Explore the distinctions between Glenfiddich 12 and Glenfiddich 14 in this comprehensive analysis, helping you choose the preferable Single Malt for your taste!

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

Glenfiddich 12 vs Glenfiddich 14: Comparison

Glenfiddich 12: A welcoming introduction to single malt Scotch, featuring a delicate and floral aroma with a smooth, fruity sweetness and a moderate finish. It’s the perfect starting point for newcomers to single malt Scotch, offering an accessible and enjoyable experience without overwhelming complexity.

Glenfiddich 14: Offers a unique twist with its bourbon barrel influence, presenting a slightly higher proof and a flavor profile that includes caramel, vanilla, and a hint of charred oak. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy the classic Glenfiddich style but are looking for something with a slight bourbon influence and a bit more depth.

Verdict: Both Glenfiddich 12 and Glenfiddich 14 serve as fantastic gateways into the world of single malt Scotch, each offering its own unique appeal. Glenfiddich 12 is ideal for those seeking a gentle and straightforward introduction, while Glenfiddich 14 provides a slightly more complex experience with a nod to American bourbon, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best Glenfiddich Whisky Selections

Glenfiddich 12: A Welcoming Gateway to Single Malt Scotch

• Nose: Floral, ripe fruit, honey
• Palate: Fruity sweetness, pear, oak
• Finish: Medium, pear, oak
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat
• Similar to: Glenlivet 12

Flavor Profile: Glenfiddich 12 offers a gentle introduction to the world of single malt Scotch. Its aroma is delicate and floral, hinting at fresh fruit and honey. On the palate, it delivers a smooth and fruity sweetness, with notes of pear and subtle oak. The finish is moderate, leaving a clean and slightly sweet aftertaste.

Perfect for Beginners: This expression is often considered a great starting point for those new to single malt Scotch. Its lack of harshness and easy-drinking nature make it a welcoming choice for first-time explorers.

Accessible and Enjoyable: While Glenfiddich 12 may not offer the intense complexity of certain whiskies, it provides a clean and pleasant experience. Its affordability and smooth character make it a popular option for casual enjoyment or those seeking a no-fuss dram.

Beyond the Basics: As your taste for whisky evolves, you might find Glenfiddich 12 familiar or less exciting. However, it remains a reliable choice for anyone seeking a gentle and approachable single malt Scotch.

Did you know?

• Aged for 12 years in used American oak and European sherry casks, contributing to its unique flavor profile.
• Established in 1887, Glenfiddich 12 has become the best-selling single malt Scotch globally.
• This expression is a prime example of Speyside whisky, known for its smooth, creamy, and often fruity characteristics, frequently matured in sherry casks.

Glenfiddich 14: Unwrapping Honeyed Notes with a Bourbon Twist

• Nose: Pencil eraser, honey, caramel, vanilla
• Palate: Caramel, pear, charred oak, vanilla
• Finish: Short-lived, fruity, spice
• Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat
• Similar to: Glenlivet 14

Aroma: Glenfiddich 14 offers a surprising opening note of pencil eraser, which smoothly transitions to sweet hints of honey, caramel, and vanilla.

Taste: The first sip greets you with a delightful blend of caramel and vanilla, gradually revealing Glenfiddich’s signature pear flavor. This is followed by a pleasant touch of charred oak, reminiscent of bourbon.

Finish: The finish is clean and relatively short, leaving a mild warming sensation and a subtle hint of spice.

Overall: This single malt Scotch is a smooth and enjoyable dram, perfect for those who appreciate classic Glenfiddich notes with a touch of American bourbon influence. The combination of creamy sweetness and charred oak creates a familiar yet unique flavor profile.

Considerations: While Glenfiddich 14 offers a pleasant experience, it’s important to note that several bourbons at a similar price point might deliver a more pronounced and complex flavor profile.

Fun fact: The unique character of this whisky comes from its aging process. It starts in traditional bourbon casks, then receives a final touch in heavily charred American Oak barrels crafted by Kelvin Cooperage, known for their exceptional quality.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whisky	Price
Glenfiddich 12	$52
Glenfiddich 14	$62