The Glenfiddich 12 Yrs
Glenfiddich 12 Year Old is the world's most awarded single malt Scotch whisky, renowned for its distinctly fresh and fruity character with notes of pear, butterscotch, and subtle oak. Matured in American and European oak casks, it offers a smooth, mellow, and approachable drinking experience.
Glenfiddich 12 Year Old, often referred to as "Our Original Twelve," is a cornerstone of the Glenfiddich distillery's core range and a benchmark for Speyside single malts. Established in 1887 by William Grant, Glenfiddich remains one of the few family-owned distilleries in Scotland. This expression is crafted with unique freshness from the same Highland spring water used since its inception. It undergoes a meticulous maturation process for at least 12 years in carefully selected American oak (ex-bourbon) and European oak (sherry) casks, which impart its sweet, fruity, and subtle oak flavors. The whisky is then mellowed in oak marrying tuns to ensure its consistent and well-balanced profile. Its distinctive triangular bottle design symbolizes the three core ingredients of single malt whisky – water, yeast, and grain – and represents a handshake with a good friend.
Tasting Notes
Color: Golden
Nose: Distinctively fresh and fruity with a hint of pear, subtle oak, delicate floral notes, and a touch of malt and honey. Some detect citrus and butterscotch.
Recognition
2024: Bronze at the International Wine & Spirit Competition
2024: Double Gold at the TAG Global Spirits Awards
2024: Gold at the International Spirits Challenge
2024: Bronze at the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition
Food Pairings
Fruits and Cheeses: Complements fresh fruits like pears, apples, and melons. Creamy cheeses such as brie or camembert create a delightful contrast.
Desserts: Pairs well with desserts featuring butterscotch or vanilla, such as crème brûlée, apple pie, or vanilla ice cream.
Lighter Fare: Smoked salmon or cured meats can enhance its subtle smokiness and spice.
Serving Suggestions
Neat: To fully appreciate its nuanced flavors and aromas at room temperature.
With a few drops of water: A small amount of still, soft spring water can open up the whisky, revealing subtle aromas and flavors.
Interesting Facts
Family-Owned: Glenfiddich is one of the few single malt distilleries that remains entirely family-owned, founded by William Grant in 1887.
Valley of the Deer: The name "Glenfiddich" is Gaelic for "Valley of the Deer," which is reflected in the distillery's logo.
World's Most Awarded: It holds the title of the world's most awarded single malt Scotch whisky, a testament to its consistent quality and widespread appeal.
Triangular Bottle: The distinctive triangular bottle shape is said to represent the three core ingredients of single malt whisky (water, malted barley, yeast) and is designed to feel like shaking hands with a good friend.