There are many distinctive flavours to enjoy in the world of Speyside whisky, a region renowned for its fruity, nutty, and honeyed sweetness. Nestled within this whisky-rich landscape are two notable distilleries, located just a stone’s throw from each other and offering their own unique takes on the revered 12 yo single malt category.
Today, I embark on a captivating journey, comparing Singleton 12 vs Glenfiddich 12 yo single malt Scotch whiskies. These two remarkable spirits are separated by flavour and striking bottle designs: the iconic triangular flask of Glenfiddich stands in stark contrast to the hip flask-inspired elegance of Singleton.
Singleton 12 year old Whisky
Our first stop is at the Dufftown Town Distillery, proudly situated in the heart of Speyside and under the ownership of Diageo. Most of the malt whisky produced at this distillery finds its way into the blends, notably Bell’s whisky and Johnnie Walker releases. Only 5% of the spirit enjoys the limelight as single malt Scotch whisky.
Singleton 12 yo single malt whisky, a product of this Speyside establishment, undergoes maturation in a combination of American and European oak casks.
Glenfiddich 12 year old Whisky
Now, let’s turn our attention to the triangular-shaped Glenfiddich bottle, which has earned its place as one of the world’s best-selling single malts. Glenfiddich pioneered packaging, introducing tubes and gift tins for its bottles, a tradition that continues to this day.
What sets Glenfiddich apart is not just its remarkable whisky but also its history of remaining family-owned. Founded in 1886 by William Grant in Dufftown, Scotland, nestled in the Glen of the River Fiddich, this distillery boasts a legacy that is both rich and enduring.
Glenfiddich 12 yo single malt whisky matures in Oloroso sherry and bourbon whisky casks, further enhancing its distinctive character.
Also Read: Glenfiddich 18 vs Glenmorangie 18 yo whisky
Singleton 12 vs Glenfiddich 12 yo Whisky
| Singleton 12 yo | Glenfiddich 12 yo | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Speyside Whisky | Speyside Whisky |
| ABV | 43% | 43% |
| Colour | Deep polished copper | Bright amber |
| Nose | Sweet with caramel, toffee and vanilla mixed with malt. Notes of rich fruit and sweet spice. | Fresh fruit, oak and honey. Floral notes with faint spices in the background. |
| Palate | Spice, rich oak and toasted malt. It is rich and nutty with a great mouth feel. Heaps of sweet vanilla and hints of fruit dipped in dark chocolate. Well-balanced with the spicy and sweet in perfect harmony. | Creamy wood notes, toffee and dried fruit. Hint of pear and caramel. Cinnamon and nutmeg. Medium bodied whisky. |
| Finish | Medium length. Notes of fruit, sweet cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. There is an underlying layer of nutty toffee sweetness, which is delicious. | Medium length. Notes of oak and spice. Lovely oily mouth feel. |
| My Rating | Excellent | Excellent |
| Comments | Easy drinking and affordable. It has an underlying nutty complexity that is delicious. | Great fruity whisky to start someone on his or her whisky journey. Not the most complex, but easy drinking, smooth and well balanced. |
| Price | $41 | $54 |
| Pairs well with | Crispy pork belly or a soft cheese. | A pear and ginger crumble. |
Both of these 12 yo releases are accessible and affordable and essential additions to a whisky enthusiast’s collection. The Glenfiddich brings notes of pear, creamy oak and cinnamon. The Singleton has toasted malt and toffee sweetness with nuts and vanilla.
The Singleton exhibits a bit more complexity than its Glenfiddich counterpart, while the Glenfiddich has a remarkable smoothness and an enticingly oily mouthfeel.
Choosing a favourite between these two magnificent offerings is a challenging task. So, I’ve chosen the path of least resistance and keep a bottle of each within easy reach in my home. Yet, if I were to tip my hand, it’s worth noting that the Glenfiddich has graced my shelf more frequently than the Singleton, perhaps suggesting a subtle preference for the smooth and elegant charms of Glenfiddich.
But ultimately, the choice is yours to make, and exploring the flavours of Singleton 12 vs Glenfiddich 12 year old whiskies is an adventure well worth embarking upon.
Also Read: Johnnie Walker Black vs Double Black Label
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NOEL MOITRA
The Singleton comes into its own at the 18 year stage. I find the 12 YO to be somewhat underdone. There is an underlying taste of grassiness, which turns a tad bitter as you down the entire swallow. The nose is pleasant, malty yet sweetish. I waited 10 min before tasting it. Oak, vanilla, oreo. Five drops of water released mild spices, but added fullness to the dram. The finish was short, but a discreet burp brought back spices and another hint of chocolate. A decent whisky, but I think I’ll go for the older variety.
Ian Mills
Singleton 12 knocks the Glenf into a bucket !
the nice guy
nice