Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 12:27 am
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.
Explore the distinctions between Glenkinchie 12 and Glenmorangie 12 in this detailed comparison to determine which whisky suits you best!
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
Glenkinchie vs Glenmorangie: Comparison
Glenkinchie 12: A traditional Lowland single malt showcasing honey, barley, and nut aromas with a vanilla, honey, and black pepper palate.
Glenmorangie Lasanta: A sherried whisky with raisins, caramel on the nose, and dried fruit, vanilla, and cinnamon on the palate.
Verdict: Glenkinchie 12 offers a classic Lowland experience for those appreciating a delicate profile with a pleasantly warm finish. Glenmorangie Lasanta, on the other hand, appeals to bourbon lovers seeking sherried complexity, offering exceptional value at its price, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top-Rated 12-Year Single Malts
Glenkinchie 12: A Classic Lowland Single Malt
- Nose: Honey, barley, almonds, hazelnuts
- Palate: Vanilla, nuts, honey, black pepper
- Finish: Toasted cereal, oak spice
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Auchentoshan 12
Aroma: Glenkinchie 12 greets you with a pleasing nose of honey, barley, almonds, and hazelnuts, offering a hint of the traditional Lowland malt character.
Palate: Expect a buttery mouthfeel with rich vanilla and honey notes, followed by a touch of black pepper spice. Adding a drop of water can help soften the peppery note and accentuate the sweetness.
Finish: The finish is decent with a subtle bite of oak spice and toasted cereal.
Overall: Glenkinchie 12 offers a classic Lowland whisky experience. While it might not be the smoothest, it provides a satisfying and traditional taste profile.
Additional Notes:
- Large stills: Despite only having two stills, they are remarkably large, contributing to the whisky’s lighter and more delicate character.
- Partnership with Johnnie Walker: Glenkinchie is a single malt owned by Diageo, the same company behind Johnnie Walker blends. A significant portion of their production goes towards these blends.
- Established heritage: Founded in 1837, Glenkinchie boasts a long and rich history in the world of Scotch whisky.
Is it right for you?
Glenkinchie 12 is a good choice for those who:
- Enjoy classic Lowland malts: This whisky showcases the typical characteristics of Lowland whiskies, known for their lighter and more delicate profiles.
- Appreciate tradition: The distillery’s long history and connection to Johnnie Walker offer a glimpse into the heritage of Scotch whisky.
Remember: The best way to discover your whiskey preference is to experiment and find what suits your taste. While Glenkinchie might not be the smoothest option, it offers a classic and traditional Lowland experience.
Glenmorangie Lasanta: A Delightful Exploration of Sherry Cask Finish
- Nose: Raisins, caramel, oak
- Palate: Dried fruit, vanilla, cinnamon
- Finish: Dried fruit, oak spice, baking spice
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Macallan Sherry Oak
Aroma: Glenmorangie Lasanta entices with a rich and inviting nose featuring raisins, caramel, vanilla, and a touch of oak.
Palate: The first sip reveals a smooth and creamy texture, followed by notes of dried fruit, vanilla, baking spice, and a subtle oak influence.
Finish: This whisky boasts a long and satisfying finish, lingering with flavors of dried fruit, oak spice, and warming baking spices.
Overall: Lasanta, meaning “warmth and passion” in Gaelic, truly embodies its name. It delivers a smooth and flavorful experience, making it a great choice for bourbon lovers seeking to explore the world of sherried whiskies.
Additional Notes:
- Blended with bourbon and sherry cask influence, offering a unique and complex taste profile.
- Award-winning: Earned the Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2010 and 2013.
- Distinctive stills: Glenmorangie’s use of tall stills with increased copper contact contributes to the whisky’s smooth and creamy texture.
Why Consider Lasanta?
- Enjoyable neat: This whisky stands well on its own without requiring water or ice.
- Perfect for sipping: Its smooth and flavorful profile makes it ideal for savoring.
- Intriguing for bourbon lovers: The bourbon cask influence creates a familiar base for those accustomed to American whiskey, while the sherry cask adds a new layer of complexity.
Remember: The best way to discover your whiskey preference is to experiment and find what suits your taste. Lasanta offers a unique and enjoyable journey for those seeking to explore the exciting world of sherried whiskies.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Glenkinchie 12 | $79 |
| Glenmorangie Lasanta | $49 |