Glenlivet 12 vs Glenlivet 14

Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 02:24 pm

Discover distinctions between Glenlivet 12 and Glenlivet 14 in this comprehensive analysis, and determine which Single Malt aligns better with 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

Glenlivet 12 vs Glenlivet 14: Comparison

Glenlivet 12: A light, smooth introduction to single malt Scotch, characterized by toasted cereal, honey, and pear aromas with a vanilla and ripe fruit palate. It’s an excellent choice for beginners or those who prefer a simple, easy-drinking whisky.

Glenlivet 14: Offers a richer experience with ripe fruit, honey, and dark chocolate notes, finished with a hint of spice. Its unique aging in Cognac barrels adds a special twist, making it a delightful option for those exploring beyond the basics.

Verdict: Glenlivet 12 provides a straightforward and accessible entry point into Scotch whisky, while Glenlivet 14 steps up with a more complex and nuanced flavor profile, appealing to those ready to explore deeper into whisky, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best Glenlivet Whisky Selections

Glenlivet 12: A Smooth Introduction to Single Malt Whisky

• Nose: Toasted cereal, honey, pear
• Palate: Vanilla, ripe fruit
• Finish: Short, honey, vanilla
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat
• Similar to: Dalmore 12

Aroma: Glenlivet 12 offers a light and inviting nose, with hints of toasted grains, honey, and pear.

Palate: The texture is smooth and pleasant, presenting a dominant vanilla flavor with subtle fruity notes.

Finish: Short and sweet, the finish leaves lingering honey and vanilla notes.

Thoughts:

Glenlivet 12 is a classic single malt known for its smooth and approachable character. It lacks harshness, peat, or smoke, making it a great choice for beginners or those seeking a simple, easy-drinking experience.

While the rich vanilla and honey flavors are enjoyable, the whisky can be considered “plain” due to its lack of complexity and distinctive notes.

Perfect Starting Point:

This makes Glenlivet 12 an excellent choice for newcomers to Scotch whisky or even liquor in general. You can enjoy it neat, or with a touch of water to unlock its subtle floral notes as per Scottish tradition.

Tips & Alternatives:

• While Glenlivet 12 can be used in cocktails, opting for a more affordable Scotch to create mixed drinks might be a better option.
• Explore our Glenlivet 12 Drinking Guide for additional serving suggestions.

Behind the Scene:

• Aged primarily in ex-bourbon and European oak casks, this whisky owes its character partly to the use of wooden washbacks during the fermentation process.
• Glenlivet holds the title of best-selling single malt in the United States, and its smooth, approachable style has contributed to its popularity.
• This expression earned a Gold medal at the International Spirits Challenge, further solidifying its quality and appeal.

Glenlivet 14: Fruity Delight with a Cognac Twist

• Nose: Ripe fruit, citrus, grape
• Palate: Honey, raisins, apple, dark chocolate
• Finish: Medium, spice, fruit
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat
• Similar to: Glenfiddich 14

Aroma: Glenlivet 14 welcomes you with a rich and inviting bouquet of ripe fruit, where citrus and grape notes shine.

Palate: The oily texture creates a pleasant mouthfeel, delivering honey as the dominant flavor, alongside hints of raisins, apples, and a touch of dark chocolate.

Finish: The finish is satisfyingly long, leaving a gentle, warming spice that lingers without overpowering your palate.

Unique Twist: What makes Glenlivet 14 stand out is its unique aging process. After maturing in ex-bourbon and sherry casks, it spends additional time in Cognac barrels. This final touch infuses the whisky with distinct flavors of ripe fruit, raisins, and chocolate, reminiscent of French Cognac.

Thoughts: While not ranking among the top single malts in its age range, Glenlivet 14 offers a pleasant and approachable experience. Its smooth, fruity character and subtle spice make it easy to enjoy.

Behind the Bottle:

• Glenlivet 14 spends 14 years maturing in ex-bourbon and sherry casks before receiving a final touch in Cognac barrels.
• Uniquely, the mash is fermented in wooden washbacks, contributing to its character.
• This expression earned an impressive 94 points at the 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge, solidifying its quality.

A Legacy of Smoothness:

• Founded in 1824, Glenlivet has a rich history of crafting smooth and enjoyable single malts, and the Glenlivet 14 continues this tradition.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whisky	Price
Glenlivet 12	$51
Glenlivet 14	$65