Glenfiddich 12 vs Johnnie Walker Black Label

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:27 pm

Discover the differences between Glenfiddich 12 vs Johnnie Walker Black Label in this in-depth comparison and decide which 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

Glenfiddich 12 vs Johnnie Walker Black Label: Comparison

Glenfiddich 12: Gentle single malt with floral and ripe fruit nose, fruity sweetness with pear and oak on the palate, and a medium finish. Ideal for beginners.

Johnnie Walker Black Label: Blended Scotch with a nose of vanilla and orange zest, palate of smoke and caramel, and a long, peppery finish. An approachable introduction to smoky whiskies.

Verdict: Both Glenfiddich 12 and Johnnie Walker Black Label offer welcoming paths into the world of whisky, each with its unique charm. Glenfiddich 12 shines for those preferring a smoother, fruitier experience, while Johnnie Walker Black Label caters to those intrigued by a subtle smokiness, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Each represents a different facet of Scotch, making them valuable additions to any whisky collection.

Related: Top 12-Year-Old Scotch Recommendations

Glenfiddich 12: A Gentle Gateway to Single Malt Whisky

• Nose: Floral, ripe fruit, honey
• Palate: Fruity sweetness, pear, oak
• Finish: Medium, pear, oak
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Glenfiddich 14

Glenfiddich 12, a single malt Scotch whisky, is often the name whispered when someone suggests “Scotch for beginners.” And for good reason! Let’s explore why this golden dram might be your perfect introduction to the world of peaty malts and oaky finishes:

Aromas like Spring: Imagine a gentle breeze carrying notes of light florals, juicy fruits, and a touch of honey. It’s an inviting perfume that promises a pleasant journey ahead.

Fruity Delight on the Palate: Take a sip and be greeted by a wave of sweetness reminiscent of ripe pears, delicately layered with hints of other fruits. A touch of oak emerges, a gentle reminder of its aging journey.

A Smooth Finish: The sweetness lingers on the tongue, leaving a subtly oaky aftertaste that fades away gracefully. Unlike some bolder Scotches, this one won’t overwhelm your palate.

Is it Right for You?

Absolutely, if you’re a newcomer to the world of Scotch. Glenfiddich 12 is incredibly smooth and mellow, making it an approachable gateway to a sometimes intimidating category. While it may not boast extreme complexity, it’s enjoyable and easy to sip, making it a solid first step on your Scotch journey.

Keep in Mind:

• This whisky isn’t about punchy flavors or intricate layers. It’s about simple, pleasant enjoyment. For bold, smoky experiences, explore other peated Scotch options.
• Glenfiddich 12 shines best neat or on the rocks. Its delicate flavors might get lost in the mix of a cocktail. If you’re looking for a cocktail-friendly Scotch, consider more affordable blends like Monkey Shoulder.

Beyond the Sip:

• Aged in a combination of American and European oak casks, each contributing unique notes to the flavor profile.
• Glenfiddich Distillery, established in 1887, boasts a rich history and tradition.
• The best-selling single malt Scotch globally, Glenfiddich 12 is a testament to its crowd-pleasing nature.
• Owned by Scotland-based William Grant & Sons, ensuring authentic Scottish heritage.

So, if you’re curious about Scotch but apprehensive about peat monsters, give Glenfiddich 12 a try. Its smoothness, fruity notes, and easygoing nature might just unlock a new world of whisky appreciation for you!

Johnnie Walker Black Label – Smoky Satisfaction or Mild Introduction?

• Nose: Vanilla, orange zest, nectarine
• Palate: Smoke, roasted malt, caramel, vanilla
• Finish: Long, fruity, peppery, smoke
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks
• Similar to: Bulleit Bourbon

Johnnie Walker Black Label, often shrouded in myth as the standard-bearer of blended Scotch, is a whisky that sparks debate. Let’s dive deeper and see if it lives up to its reputation:

Aromatic Intrigue: The initial sniff offers a mix of vanilla, citrus zest, and juicy nectarine, making it quite inviting. However, a touch of alcohol heat can be noticeable.

Thin on the Tongue: This whisky isn’t known for its body, feeling light and slightly thin on the palate.

Flavor Fusion: Expect a mildly sweet entry, followed by a distinctive peaty character that some love, some find challenging. Notes of toffee and vanilla try to balance the smoke, with varying degrees of success.

Warm Farewell: The finish lingers with peat, black pepper, and a touch of salt, leaving a gentle warmth that isn’t harsh.

Is it Good?

For newcomers to peated Scotch, Black Label can be a decent introduction. It’s smooth and approachable, offering a taste of the iconic smoky flavor without overwhelming newcomers. However, those seeking a more complex or full-bodied experience might find it lacking.

Keep in Mind:

• Black Label is a blended whisky, meaning it combines various malt and grain whiskies. This often results in a smoother, more approachable profile than single malts.
• It’s aged for a minimum of 12 years, which contributes to its smoothness but doesn’t guarantee depth of flavor.
• Johnnie Walker’s global popularity often makes it a readily available option, but it’s not necessarily the pinnacle of Scotch whisky.

Beyond the Sip:

• This blend includes 40 different whiskies from across Scotland, showcasing the diversity of the region’s flavors.
• Johnnie Walker, founded in the early 19th century, is a brand steeped in history and tradition.
• Owned by Diageo, a powerhouse in the spirits industry, ensuring global reach and brand recognition.

So, the verdict?

Johnnie Walker Black Label is a solid, beginner-friendly peated Scotch. If you’re curious about smoky whiskies and want a smooth introduction, give it a try. However, if you’re seeking complexity or a fuller-bodied experience, explore other options. Remember, whisky is a journey, and Black Label can be a stepping stone to discovering your own unique preferences.

How do they differ?

Glenfiddich is a single malt whisky, which means it is made exclusively from malted barley and produced at a single distillery.

The Black Label is a blend of 40 whiskies made from grains and malts sourced from various distilleries throughout Scotland.

In general, single malts tend to have a smoother profile compared to blends, as grain whiskies can sometimes have a harsher character.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whisky	Price
Glenfiddich 12	$36
Johnnie Walker Black Label	$27