Glengoyne 12 vs Macallan 12

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:19 pm

Discover the differences between Glengoyne 12 vs Macallan 12 in this in-depth 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

Glengoyne vs Macallan: Comparison

Glengoyne 12: A whisky journey filled with honey, toasted barley, and apples, leading to a palate of caramel and sherry, and ending on notes of coffee, vanilla, and oak. A smooth and sweet experience for those seeking a gentle introduction to whisky.

Macallan 12 Double Cask: Embark on a sweet adventure with sherry, dried fruit, and a hint of mixed nuts, followed by a rich palate of baking spice and chocolate, and concluding with a finish of oak and dried fruit. Ideal for those exploring the depths of sherry-matured Scotch.

Verdict: Both Glengoyne 12 and Macallan 12 Double Cask provide a lush and inviting introduction to Scotch, with Glengoyne offering a lighter, honeyed sweetness and Macallan presenting a deeper, sherry-infused richness.

Each whisky captures the essence of its distillery’s approach to single malt, showcasing the versatility and depth of flavors that Scotch can offer.

Whether you lean towards the pure, unpeated profile of Glengoyne or the rich, sherry-aged complexity of Macallan, both whiskies stand as excellent choices for those seeking quality and approachability, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: 12-Year Scotch Whisky Recommendations

Glengoyne 12: A Smooth Journey for Whisky Wanderers

• Nose: Toasted barley, apples, honey
• Palate: Caramel, sherry, oak, vanilla
• Finish: Long, coffee, vanilla, oak
• Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat
• Similar to: GlenDronach 12

Aromatic Enchantment:

Open the bottle and let the sweet symphony begin. Honeycomb aromas intertwine with toasted barley, creating a warm, inviting fragrance. Imagine freshly baked apple pie kissed by sunshine – that’s the Glengoyne 12 welcoming your nose.

Creamy Delights on the Palate:

Prepare to be pampered. The first sip delivers a luxuriously smooth and textured mouthfeel. Imagine rich caramel swirling with hints of sherry, followed by a gentle whisper of toasty oak and vanilla. A touch of oak spice adds a playful wink, keeping things lively without overpowering the sweetness.

A Lingering Farewell:

The finish is like a warm hug that lasts. Imagine savoring subtle notes of espresso coffee, vanilla, and oak, long after the last sip. It’s a satisfying and elegant conclusion to a truly delightful journey.

Is it Right for You?

While not the most intricate whisky labyrinth, Glengoyne 12 offers a solid and enjoyable experience for all. It’s incredibly smooth and sweet, with no harsh edges or bitterness, making it a perfect companion for whisky veterans and novices alike.

Unique Charm:

Unlike peaty or smoky drams, Glengoyne uses air-blown malted barley, creating a traditionally pure flavor profile. This makes it ideal for those who appreciate a classic, unadulterated whisky taste.

In short:

• Honey, toasted barley, and apple notes dance in the aroma.
• Creamy palate filled with caramel, sherry, toasty oak, vanilla, and a touch of spice.
• Satisfying finish with espresso, vanilla, and oak hints.
• Smooth, sweet, and approachable for all whisky drinkers.
• A classic taste experience for those who prefer pureness.

Macallan Double Cask 12: A Sweet Journey with a Hint of Spice

• Nose: Sherry, dried fruit, mixed nuts
• Palate: Baking spice, oak, chocolate
• Finish: Oak, dried fruit, oak spice
• Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Highland Park 12

Uncorking the Bottle:

The Macallan Double Cask 12 promises a delightful journey for your senses. Right from the first sniff, you’ll be greeted by a sweet wave of sherry and dried fruits, mingling with the warm, woody aroma of oak. It’s like nosing a freshly baked fruitcake, with a touch of sophistication from the oak.

Taking a Sip:

On the palate, the oak takes center stage, offering a robust presence alongside hints of dark chocolate and lingering sherry notes. A touch of citrus adds a bright, refreshing twist, keeping things balanced. The warmth is pleasant, not overwhelming, making each sip inviting.

The Grand Finale:

The finish is where the magic truly unfolds. Imagine lingering oak, whispers of dried fruits, and a touch of warming spice dancing on your tongue. It’s a satisfying conclusion to a well-crafted experience.

Is it for You?

The Double Cask boasts rich, balanced flavors with a subtle chocolatey note and a hint of spice. The noticeable oak presence adds depth, but it might be a tad too intense for some. If you’re new to sherry-matured Scotches, this is a smooth and accessible introduction. Remember, a splash of water can tame the oak and warmth if you prefer a gentler experience.

In short:

• Sweet, inviting aroma with sherry and dried fruit notes.
• Robust oak presence on the palate, balanced by chocolate, sherry, and citrus.
• Pleasant warmth and a long, satisfying finish with lingering oak, spice, and dried fruit.
• A great introduction to sherry-matured Scotch, but the oak might be strong for some.
• Adding water can soften the oak and warmth for a gentler experience.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whisky	Price
Glengoyne 12	$60
Macallan 12 Double Cask	$75

Similarities

• Both Glengoyne and Macallan are distilleries that exclusively produce single malt whiskies using malted barley.
• Both Glengoyne and Macallan are unique in their use of 100% Golden Promise barley, a traditional and premium barley variety grown in Scotland.
• This barley imparts a mellow and sweet flavor to the wort.
• Neither Glengoyne nor Macallan utilizes caramel coloring in their whiskies.
• While it is permitted by regulations, these distilleries choose to avoid this practice, ensuring the natural appearance of their whiskies.