The Glenlivet 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
80 Proof
Price Point: $35 – $45 for 750 ML
Distiller: Glenlivet Distillery
Background
You walk into a bar and sit on a stool. As a whiskey drinker, you survey the selection available to you. You recognize that you are not in a “whiskey bar”, and you have a grand total of four whiskeys to choose from.
Inevitably, one of those will be the Glenlivet 12 Year Old. This is a whisky that is synonymous with Scotch to some people, which makes it readily available in your neighborhood bar. You likely order it because it’s your best option and (usually) reasonably priced. Below is what you can expect…
Review
Glenlivet 12 Year Old’s nose is very light and florally. Of course, the classic Glenlivet pineapple note is apparent right from the start. This is a nice nose for an entry-level expression. A little malty yet no peat at all.
The taste is smooth and velvety. There’s plenty of flavor in the Glenlivet 12, but it’s pretty thin at 40%. An interesting pineapple/pear combination shows up to set this one apart.
The malt really shines here with a nice smooth finish. This is a very good after-dinner whisky.
Rating & Recommendations
I enjoy Glenlivet 12 Year Old, but I cannot rate it higher than an 83 out of 100 due to how thin it tasted.
If you enjoy this whisky but are looking for something a little bolder, you should definitely check out Glenlivet Nàdurra which is a cask strength, 16 year old version of this stuff.
-Ryan
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One historic point … this is the one that introduced the world to single malts. Only blends before this baby. You whisk(e)y lovers should bow at the altar of The Glenlivet for opening the door for you!
The Glenlivet 12 could be great whisky… the problem is that it’s to mainstream! 40% ABV, chillfiltered, E150.
I would like every GL to be more like Nadurra! Higher ABV and non chillfiltered and off corse no E150!!! Then it should have the depth that it’s now missing!
Author
Agreed 100%!
-Ryan
I’m currently sampling a 375-mL bottle of Glenlivet 12 Year Old that I picked up in New Hampshire at the same time I purchased the Glenmorangie sampler pack that I discussed with you earlier this week. I will say it is a refreshing change from the sherry-casked Speysides (Balvenie Doublewood & GlenDronach Original) that I’ve sampled so far. That said, I believe that I will select the French Oak Reserve 15 Year Old expression for my liquor cabinet and leave the 12 Year Old as my after-dinner-at-the-steakhouse selection.
Author
Definitely go with the French Oak Reserve!
-Ryan
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