Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 02:32 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.
Uncover the differences between Glenlivet 14 vs Founder’s Reserve in this in-depth comparison and choose your next Single Malt!
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 Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve: Comparison
- Glenlivet 14: Offers a rich and complex profile with ripe fruit, honey, and dark chocolate, finished in Cognac barrels for unique flavors. Valued for its smoothness and distinctive taste from the French Cognac barrel finish, making it a superior choice for those seeking depth and a more engaging whisky experience.
- Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve: Presents a simpler, straightforward taste with banana, vanilla, and a short fruity finish; An accessible entry point into single malts.
- Verdict: For a more flavorful and satisfying experience with unique Cognac cask influences, choose Glenlivet 14. If seeking an easy-to-drink and more affordable Scotch without age statement concerns, the Founder’s Reserve is a suitable option, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Glenlivet Whiskies
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: Glenlivet 12
Rich & Fruity: Glenlivet 14 opens with a rich aroma of ripe fruit, especially citrus and grapes.
Honeyed & Smooth: Expect a smooth and oily texture with honey as the main flavor, complemented by raisins, apples, and a touch of dark chocolate.
Long & Warming Finish: The finish is long and warming, with a gentle spice that leaves a comforting sensation.
Unique Cognac Finish: This whisky stands out for its unique aging process, finishing in Cognac casks, which contributes the distinct notes of ripe fruit, raisins, and chocolate.
Bonus Facts:
- Aged 14 years, finished in Cognac casks
- Uses wooden washbacks for fermentation
- 94 points at the 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge
- Founded in 1824
Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve: Easy-Drinking Single Malt
- Nose: Banana, apple, anise
- Palate: Vanilla, caramel, oak
- Finish: Short-lived, fruity
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Johnnie Walker
Subtle & Smooth: Founder’s Reserve offers a light aroma with hints of banana, apple, and anise. It has a smooth, creamy texture on the palate with vanilla, caramel, and a touch of oak.
Short & Refreshing: The finish is brief, featuring citrus and oak spice.
Perfect for Beginners: Founder’s Reserve is an easy-drinking whisky with no harsh notes, making it a great choice for those new to single malts.
Affordable Choice: Its attractive price makes it a good value for the quality.
Enjoy Neat or Chilled: For a neat experience, chill with large ice cubes to prevent dilution. For mixing, consider budget-friendly options like Dewar’s or Jameson.
Bonus Facts:
- No age statement
- Best-selling single malt in the US
- Founded in 1824
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Glenlivet 14 | $65 |
| Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve | $44 |