The Glenlivet 12 Year Old
With an annual production of nearly 6 million liters, The Glenlivet is a scotch whisky powerhouse, occupying shelf space in nearly every liquor store worldwide. The distillery has a storied history, starting with its founding in 1824, through it’s acquisition by Glen Grant in 1953 and Seagrams in 1977 to its current resting place in the portfolio of Pernod Ricard. The often-told story is that George Smith, The Glenlivet’s founder, had to carry a pistol when he first obtained a license for his distillery to ward off his hundreds of (illegal) competitors. If you’re ever in a sketchy bar and want single malt scotch, chances are they’ll have bottles of Glenfiddich 12 and The Glenlivet 12 kicking around.
The Glenlivet 12 Year Old is the staple of The Glenlivet’s production, and is the most accessible price-wise. Coming in at, for instance, 1/2 the price of Longmorn 16 or 3/4 the price of Highland Park 12, The Glenlivet is priced competitively alongside Glenfiddich 12. Described as “the quintessential Speyside malt” by Michael Jackson, The Glenlivet has been reviewed by dozens of people over the years. In general, it is characterized as floral with cereal notes, fresh wood and citrus. Light and fresh palate, with a clean finish.
Boringly enough, I agree completely — The Glenlivet is one of those drams that you can grab in any circumstance, and it won’t disappoint. While perhaps lacking in some of the strong and unique characteristics of an Islay peated beast or a small-batch American bourbon, it is the consistent, easy-drinking taste that makes The Glenlivet so appealing. Sure, if you feel like exploring something really special tonight, then by all means buy something a bit more rare. However, if you’re purchasing a bottle for home that you’ll be happy to drink without any guilt from consuming a scotch that is $100+ per bottle, this is a great place to start.
I can’t argue with buying this one as an “everyday” malt. I don’t know how much the 15 Year French Oak goes for in your area, but for me, it’s about $8 more per bottle. I really like that one as a more interesting whisky for just a bit more money. Have you had a chance to compare the two?
Thanks,
Jeff
Unfortunately the 15 year French Oak is $20 more ($69 vs $49 CDN) in my neck of the woods. I do like the effect of the limousin casks: very noticeable in comparison to the typical bourbon casks. I’d call the effect creamy spiciness. That said, it is still highly balanced. It makes a good dessert dram, and would probably be a good first dram for a beginner. As an everyday drinker, I’m not sure it justifies the $20 price differential.
Luke, I completely agree with your review. This is my favorite go-to single malt, and one I was enjoying before I really become interested in whisky. One of the best price-quality ratios around.
Due to the wide spread availability of Glenlivet it may lack some of the cachet that attachs to other single malts. However, as you have astutely pointed out, it is very good value for money.
I’d like to make another suggestion: Glenlivet 18yrs
A phenomenal scotch at a great price. Where I live most 18 yr old sinle malts are $20 more than the Glenlivet 18. A splendid single malt that is very complex. Try it with a teaspoon of water to a double pour. It will surprise you.
Cheers!
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