Description
The Glenlivet 12 is a classic Speyside expression: bright, approachable, fruity, and smooth. It captures the signature Glenlivet character—fruit-forward elegance balanced with subtle oak influence—making it a reliable entry point into single-malt whiskies.
Origins & Craftsmanship
The Glenlivet distillery, founded in 1824 near Ballindalloch in the Speyside region of Scotland, sources its water from local springs (notably Josie’s Well). The 12-year whisky is matured in a mix of American and European oak casks, selected to support rather than dominate the spirit. The blending of oak types helps interweave vanilla, spice, and fruit without masking the distillery’s core identity. The final bottling is 40 % ABV, non-barrel proof, and part of Glenlivet’s core age-statement range.
Tasting Profile
Nose: Fresh and inviting—honeysuckle, meadow flowers, green apple, and pear—followed by vanilla, marzipan, and toasted oak. A hint of tropical lift (pineapple or citrus blossom) rounds out the profile.
Palate: Silky and medium-bodied. A cascade of orchard and stone fruit—apple, pear, peach—blends with creamy vanilla, light toffee, and gentle oak spice. The balance leans toward fruit, with oak as supportive texture rather than bold flavor.
Finish: Medium length, softly warming. The fruit fades into a gentle echo of malt sweetness, light oak, and a hint of nutmeg or baking spice. It leaves a clean, polished aftertaste that’s comfortable and pleasant.
Quick Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Statement | 12 years |
| ABV / Proof | 40 % ABV (80 proof) |
| Region / Distillery | Speyside, The Glenlivet |
| Cask Regimen | American & European oak casks |
| Color | Bright gold |
| Aromas & Flavors | Green apple, pear, floral honey, vanilla, marzipan, light oak spice |
| Style / Identity | Elegant, fruit-forward Speyside malt—smooth, approachable, balanced |
“The nose on this tried and true Scotch whisky has notes of meyer lemon zest, honeysuckle, and roasted nuts. The spirited palate has layered flavors of freshly baked brioche, dried fig, golden raisin, and subtle earth. Complexity shines through on the subtly smoky finish.” 95 Points, 2018 Ultimate Spirits Competition
“Off-dry malted barley and light toffee smells greet the olfactory sense along with flowery fragrances of heather, rose petal and pine. Entry features sweet grain and candied apricot tastes; the midpalate is mellow, malty, fruity (white raisins, apricots) and sophisticated. Ends on a buttery note. Remains the Speyside benchmark.” Wine Enthusiast92 Points, Best Buy
This bottle comes with no box or other packaging.
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