In today’s exploration, we dive into the exciting realm of 18 year old whiskies, pitting two iconic releases against each other. It’s a showdown of Speyside elegance versus the bold Highland spice as we compare Glenfiddich 18 vs Glenmorangie 18 year old single malt Scotch whiskies in the ultimate battle of flavours and craftsmanship.
Let’s make one thing clear from the start – this isn’t about crowning a winner, and choosing a favourite would be akin to picking a favourite child.
Both of these drams are exceptional in their own right, and today, we’re delving deep into their distinctions and uncovering their unique taste profiles. So, without further ado, let’s delve into the captivating world of Glenfiddich versus Glenmorangie whisky.
Glenmorangie 18 year old Whisky
Our journey begins in the Highlands, in Tain, Ross-shire, Scotland, where Glenmorangie proudly stands as a towering icon. Literally, with the tallest stills in Scotland. The Glenmorangie 18 year old single malt whisky is a testament to their dedication to craft and tradition.
This Highland gem matures in bourbon casks, with some Sherry casks added. The process unfolds over 15 years in standard oak casks, after which approximately 30% of the liquid embarks on a three-year adventure in Spanish Oloroso casks.
Once both components reach the ripe age of 18, they are masterfully blended. This exquisite whisky is in the Glenmorangie Prestige Expressions collection, alongside the Signet and the 25 year old release.
Glenfiddich 18 year old Whisky
Heading south to Dufftown in the Speyside region of Scotland, we find Glenfiddich. This distillery has been delighting whisky enthusiasts since its establishment in 1886. What sets Glenfiddich apart is its continued dedication to family ownership, a rarity in the industry.
Glenfiddich’s 18 year old single malt whisky, a part of their Core range, blends Oloroso Sherry and Bourbon casks. The result is a harmonious marriage of flavours that tantalize the palate.
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Glenfiddich 18 vs Glenmorangie 18 year old Whisky
| Glenfiddich 18 yo | Glenmorangie 18 yo |
|
|---|---|---|
| Region | Speyside Whisky | Highland Whisky |
| ABV | 43% | 43% |
| Colour | Rich gold | Light golden amber |
| Nose | Oak and fresh apple notes are intertwined with barley and cereals. There is a definite sweetness of dried fruits and hints of toffee in the background. | Toffee sweet, rich and creamy. Creme Brule, honey with hints of spice and oak. An abundance of fresh fruit, dried pear and fruits of the forest. |
| Palate | Notes of oak, barley and cereal. An extraordinary smooth whisky. Fruit cake and Christmas pudding with warming cinnamon and roast nuts. Multi-layered. | Big and bold. Thick and syrupy with lots of spice and oak. Fresh fruit, pears and rich heather honey. It is rich and complex with a big fruit and spice kick. |
| Finish | A lingering spicy finish with mild nuts and toffee. | Long and lingering with hints of butter, chocolate and citrus peel. |
| My Rating | Excellent | Excellent |
| Comments | Wonderfully complex but still easy drinking. | Well-balanced and smooth. |
| You will like it if you are looking for… | Something sweeter with winter fruits and nut notes. | Summer fruits with a spicy kick that is bold and warming. |
| Price | $132 | $140 |
| Pairs well with | Brebirousse d’Argental cheese, Cassoulet, freshly baked apple pie with ice cream | Coffee and dark chocolate macaroons, aged gouda cheese |
The Glenmorangie 18 year old is big and bold with notes of fruity sweetness, hints of warming spices and a creamy texture. Notes of toffee, dried pear and creamy oak mix with cinnamon and chocolate.
The Glenfiddich 18 year old also has fruity notes, but there are more cereals, baked pudding and nuts on the palate. Oak and fresh apples balanced with Christmas spices and fruit cake.
The Glenmorangie is more spicy and fruit-forward than the Glenfiddich. The Glenmorangie has a creamier texture, but the Glenfiddich is more complex. The Glenfiddich showcases more of the creamy nuts and oak mixed with cereals that you don’t get in the Glenmorangie.
When it comes to ratings on platforms like Whizzky, it appears that the Glenmorangie might have a slight edge over Glenfiddich. However, remember that whisky appreciation is highly subjective, and personal taste plays a significant role.
I suspect many connoisseurs would agree to a place for both of these remarkable whiskies in my whisky room.
So, whether you lean toward the fruity nature of Speyside or the robust spices of the Highlands, one thing is for sure. In the Glenfiddich 18 vs Glenmorangie 18 year old whisky showdown, everyone’s a winner. Cheers to exploring these stellar 18 year old masterpieces.
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Dave
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Richard Cuccia
— [1] GF18 & GM18 are two most excellent & most beautiful Scotch Whiskys. Despite not owning either, at tastings here in New Orleans, I have had the pleasure of tasting both of these gems over the past 3 or so years. These two whiskys are great, & i want to taste them again soon.
— [2] I do own GF12 & the most excellent for the price GF15 Solera. I also own GM10 Original, GM Lasanta 12, GM Bacalta, & & the most excellent for the price GM Quinta Ruban 12. Great whiskys all. Richard