First Impressions
Glenfiddich — Gaelic for 'Valley of the Deer' — was built stone by stone by William Grant and his family in 1887. The 12 Year Old is the definitive example of the Speyside style and the world's best-selling single malt Scotch whisky. Matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, it is light, sunny, and unpretentious — a whisky that excels in its simplicity.
Tasting
The nose is quintessential Speyside: orchard fruits of green apple and sweet pear with honey and lemony citrus. On the palate at 40%, clean and fresh with green fruits and dark fruit character from the sherry casks. The finish is medium to short with bittersweet character.
The Verdict
Glenfiddich 12 earns a 7 — the perfect starter whisky for newcomers to single malt. Unpretentious, harmonious, and smooth. It doesn't challenge, but it never disappoints. At £32, the most accessible entry point to Scotch single malt, and the world chose it for good reason.
