Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:07 pm
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.
Discover the differences between Glenlivet 12 vs Redbreast 12 in this in-depth comparison and decide which Whiskey 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
Glenlivet vs Redbreast: Comparison
Glenlivet 12: A welcoming Speyside malt with honey, pear, and vanilla notes. Creamy and smooth with a short finish. Ideal for newcomers.
Redbreast 12: A rich Irish whiskey featuring vanilla, ripe fruit, and baking spice. Creamy texture with a warming finish. Surpasses many in its category.
Verdict: Glenlivet 12 and Redbreast 12 each offer a gateway to their respective whiskey worlds, with Glenlivet providing an easy, smooth start for Scotch enthusiasts and Redbreast offering a creamy, complex introduction to Irish whiskey. Both are excellent stepping stones, promising pleasure and discovery, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: 12-Year Scotch Top Selections
Glenlivet 12: A Smooth Start to Your Scotch Journey (But Maybe Not Your Final Destination)
- 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: Dewar’s 12
Glenlivet 12, the Speyside single malt known for its iconic green bottle, is often a first encounter for many venturing into the world of Scotch whisky. Let’s delve into its taste profile and see if it lives up to its reputation:
A Nose of Breakfast Delights:
Imagine biting into a warm bowl of toasted cereal drizzled with honey and sliced pear. That’s the light and inviting aroma that greets you with Glenlivet 12. It’s uncomplicated, familiar, and sets the expectation for a smooth and approachable dram.
Creamy Bliss on Your Tongue:
The first sip confirms the smoothness promise. Glenlivet 12 boasts a luxurious, creamy texture that glides effortlessly across your palate. Flavors of vanilla and fruit take center stage, offering a sweet and mellow experience. Some might find it lacks complexity, but for newcomers, it’s an easy and enjoyable introduction.
A Finish That Whispers Goodbye:
The finish isn’t particularly long, but it leaves a pleasant memory of sweet honey and vanilla. It doesn’t linger dramatically, but it doesn’t need to. Glenlivet 12 isn’t about lingering complexity, it’s about pure, uncomplicated enjoyment.
Smoothness for Beginners, Maybe Not for Aficionados:
Glenlivet 12 shines as an entry-level single malt. Its lack of harshness, peat, or smoke makes it a welcoming experience for those new to Scotch or even spirits in general. However, experienced whisky enthusiasts might find it lacks the depth and complexity they crave.
Water: Your Friend or Foe?
While Glenlivet 12 is perfectly enjoyable neat, a splash of water can unveil hidden dimensions. It might bring out subtle floral notes, intensify the sweetness, and create a fuller experience, following the traditional Scottish approach. Experiment and see what you prefer!
The Verdict: A Solid First Step, But Maybe Not Forever:
Glenlivet 12 delivers on its promise of smooth and mellow enjoyment. It’s a great starting point for exploring the world of Scotch, especially for those seeking a gentle introduction. However, if you’re looking for explosive flavors and intricate layers of complexity, you might want to explore further.
So, is Glenlivet 12 right for you? If you’re a curious beginner, eager to embark on your Scotch journey, this dram awaits with open arms (and a smooth, sweet embrace). But remember, the world of whisky is vast and exciting, and there’s always more to discover!
Redbreast 12: A Creamy Dream that Surpasses Expectations (and Maybe Your Scotch Stash)
- Nose: Vanilla, caramel, ginger, orange peel
- Palate: Ripe fruit, citrus, sherry, baking spice, oak
- Finish: Baking spice, red fruit
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Glenfiddich 12
Redbreast 12, the jewel in the crown of Irish whiskey, isn’t just another dram. It’s a revelation, one that will change your perception of this often-underrated category. Let’s explore what makes it so special:
A Nose Like a Vanilla Bakery:
Imagine walking into a warm bakery filled with the irresistible aroma of fresh vanilla buns. That’s the first impression Redbreast 12 delivers, followed by the sweetness of caramel and a hint of spicy ginger. A whisper of orange peel adds a touch of citrus intrigue, leaving you longing for a sip.
Creamy Heaven on Your Palate:
Forget any preconceived notions of harshness. Redbreast 12 boasts a remarkably creamy texture that coats your tongue with pure pleasure. Ripe fruits lead the way, a delightful medley of sweetness, followed by refreshing citrus notes. Hints of sherry wine and oak add depth and complexity, making each sip a journey of discovery.
A Finish that Lingering Like a Warm Embrace:
The finish is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Pleasant warmth spreads through you, accompanied by the lingering taste of baking spices and dried fruits. It’s a satisfying conclusion that leaves you wanting more, yet content in the moment.
Farewell, Jameson. Hello, Redbreast:
This is not your average Irish whiskey. Redbreast 12 transcends expectations, surpassing many Scotch whiskies and leaving Jameson, Bushmills, and Tullamore DEW in its wake. It strikes a perfect balance between sweet and spicy, all delivered in an incredibly creamy body that is dangerously smooth and oh-so-inviting.
No Enhancements Needed, Just Pure Enjoyment:
Forget water, ice, or chasers. Redbreast 12 needs no embellishments. It’s perfect on its own, allowing you to fully appreciate its complex layers of flavor without any distractions.
Pricey, but Worth Every Penny:
While the price might seem high initially, trust me, after a few sips, you’ll forget about it. The quality and flavor experience Redbreast 12 offers are unmatched, making it an investment worth savoring.
Ready to experience a revelation? Give Redbreast 12 a try. It might just become your new go-to dram, and you might find yourself wondering why you haven’t explored Irish whiskey sooner!
What do they have in common?
Both whiskies are under the ownership of Pernod Ricard, a Paris-based company with an extensive portfolio of brands in the industry.
However, it is important to note that Glenlivet is crafted in Scotland, while Redbreast is produced at the Jameson Distillery in Ireland, making them distinct and separate from each other.
How do Glenlivet and Redbreast differ?
The Glenlivet is a Single Malt Whisky made exclusively from malted barley while the Redbreast is comprised of grain and malt whiskies.
Redbreast follows the traditional Irish Single Pot Still style of whisky production.
This involves using a mash bill that includes both malted and unmalted barley, which is then triple-distilled in copper pot stills.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Glenlivet 12 | $33 |
| Redbreast 12 | $55 |