83/100 is quite a high mark for me. It's a good 'gateway' to whisky but it's chill filtered with added caramel and too staid for my tastes. Enjoy your reviews though!
I havent been drinking whiskey for very long. Maybe October 2011. Started off with JD Gentleman Jack and Makers 46. While my buddy and I were looking for other whiskeys we saw the Ardbeg Ten. Threw some money together and got it. I absolutely loved it! So I guess you can say I started off a little differently than others. The Glenfiddich 12 is really good for the price. Big fan! (but I'll always keep my shelf stocked with either Laphroaig 10, or Ardbeg Ten.
Funny, you mentioned you should start someone new to single malts with something that isn't heavy like a Islay whisky. My first single malt was Bowmore 12 year old, and I loved it. I quickly became a single malt enthusiast. What are your favourite single malts, and what would you recommend?
great vids! at 43 i finally have the taste for scotch, i just bought the Fiddich 12 for my 2nd bottle.
Question: about a month ago i was asked to find a GOOD bottle of scotch for a friend to give as a gift and could spend $100-200. i didn't know much but came up with a bottle of Fiddich 21 for $150 from an online dealer.
Money isn't really a deal with him so i didn't mind if i overspent .. but he never got back to me to let me know if his brother enjoyed the gift. is it possible he hated it?
Hey Ralfy! One note you may have forgotten in this review is quite obviously pear!!! I very much detect the pear... Well, I'm actually looking for a whisky less fruity but more smokey and tobacco, what single malt whisky about the same price would you recommend? Thnx!
I changed my mind on the 18yo, after adding a splash of water (I like to add a bit more than Ralfy), it really opened flavour up. Still not as good as the 15yo Solera in my view, a little better than the 12, which is still very good. Ralfy any idea why the 15/18 feel to be stronger than 40%?
whisky-intensity ! ... this is where the flavour experience in one whisky at 40% seems stronger than another whisky at 40% Intensity variance is common and the reason why some official bottlings are at a higher strength (e.g. 48%) as they would seem feeble at 40% such is the intensity deficite.
@veyron92 well theses things take time to develop like Ralfystuff Said Patience and keep trying that's the only way to develop a nose for this sort of thing
@avghanekar123 Hi, I was really disapointed with the 18yo Glenfiddich. The 15yo Solera is the best I've ever had and really blew me away (only tried around 10-12 Malts mind you), the 12yo very good, but the 18 I didn't particularly like, overly sweet and more of a simple caramel taste. Gents Aberlour is £16 in Morrisons a very nice dram - better than the 18 Glenfiddich imo and maybe the 12 too but it's all individual preference
@avghanekar123 Hi, I was really disapointed with the 18yo Glenfiddich. The 15yo Solera is the best I've ever had and really blew me away (only tried around 10-12 Malts mind you), the 12yo very good, but the 18 I didn't particularly like, overly sweet and more of a simple caramel taste. Gents Aberlour is £16 in Morrisons a very nice dram - better than the 18 Glenfiddich imo and maybe the 12 too but it's all individual preference
I'm a 20 year old male. I bought a bottle of this a few days ago. After a few glasses, and learning how to properly enjoy it, I'm now a scotch drinker for life!
After thought (continuation on my last message): What factors effect the texture of a scotch? I love the vibrant amber of JW Black Label and on the higher-end, Glenfarclas 105. I'm curious, though, if there is any relationship between the color of the scotch, and its overall quality or experience. I ask because I've noticed some cheaper single malts, like Speyburn or McClelland's seem to all be a light yellowish shade, and tasting it reminds you how cheap it was.
colour in whisky tells you very little about flavour due to the use by most Distillers of added caramel E150a colouring to make the whisky look tastier !
Hey Ralfy, a scotch novice here. I love your videos, they're very helpful (although my experience with Mr. Walker's Red Label blend wasn't quite as horrifying as yours seemed to have been - indicative of my inexperienced palate no doubt), but when you say "Amber, minus one or two," what do you mean? I understand you're referring to the texture, but the "minus one or two" bit has me confused.
Hey Ralfy, could you please help me? I have a Glenffidich Pure Malt (thats what it says on a label). Is that the sam thing as 12 y.o.? I even went on Glenffidich official web page and i cant find the that whiskey. Is it possible that they change the name for certain markets? I know that, for example, hennessy v.s.o.p. is called hennessy fine de cognac in my country.
Hello Ralfy, I Have a question for you. But first thank you for recommending Auchentoshan 12 for me, I really enjoyed it. Can you please give me a recommendation of which glenfiddich I should try. Also should I try the glenlivet 18? Here is what my palate likes and hates: I hated the Glenlivet 15 YO and the Glenfiddich 12 YO. I do Like Auchentoshan 12, Glenlivet 12, Macallan 12, and Johnnie Walker Gold and Blue Label. So out of Glenlivet 18, Glenfiddich 15 and 18 which one would I like Best?
i find this is indeed too wine-y for me on the nose. the palate is easy going kind of sweet and fruity, i get that ''sparkly'' feeling on my tongue like if i was drinking white wine but thats something i do like. all in all very mediocre nose and solid palate. the finish isn't something to get too much excited about but its pleasant i didn't get any aluminum or metal taste.
You have really great reviews Ralfy, you are very knowledgeable and clearly know what you are talking about.
I would like to get your opinion on what is the better scotch: Johnny Walker Black or Glenfiddich 12 year. I know you gave the Black Label a slightly higher score, but was that comparing it to other blends, or to single malts as well?
Are you sure this should be a single malt for beginners? This week I tried Glenlivet 12, Highland Park 12 and Glenfiddich 12... I find the two first normal, but I can't drink Glenfiddich without a cough... :)
Good review as always Ralfy. I've enjoyed one of these Glenfiddich 12 wich came in a nifty copper metallic box. I added quite some water to it (4-5 table spoons) and I defenitely noticed some hint metal in it. Not precisly a bad whiskey but it left me pretty untouched...a nice "overall" single malt I would rather say.
Corks are more likely to get replaced when pissed, riding, driving or simply walking. Much easier to deal with, even one-handed. I don't understand your "slight touch of aluminium", AFAIK it bears no discernable taste, it is a very reactive metal so may pick up other heavy metals. Solera system comes from sherry.
Hey Ralfy great reviews I've been watching your videos and they are very instructive keep it up!, now my question is Im fairly new to single malts, love the taste and the smell of it, I just purchased a bottle of 12 y/o Glenlivet before I found your reviews, so what would be your recomendation to start enjoing single malts...?
@ralfystuff So i started drinking Kentucky straight bourbon so if i wanted to jump into drinking scotch whisky.What would be a good recommendation.The reason for this is i understand what you mean by starting with a full bodied going back to a weaker bodied.It taste like flat pop and doesn't have the sting.Well you are the Professor in Whiskys so thats why ask.Thank you very much and have a wonderful day.
@ralfystuff Thank you for your advice and I will certainly purchase a 750ml bottle of Glenmorangie Original.Here is a brief history of my whiskey journey starting from Woodford Reserve,Makers Mark,Elijah Craig 12 Years,Evan Williams Black Label,Bulleit Bourbon,and just finished the Elmer T Lee Single Barrel.Just to confirm based on your theory of light to heavy flavored malts.Jumping in with the Glenmorangie Original should fit right in?Thank you for the info!
correct, Speyside is mid-north east Highlands, but is difined as a Whisky Region in it's own right due to the malt-styles being sweeter and less complex-finish then Highland Whiskies.
Hi Ralffy! I'm not Whisky's fan, but are Glenfiddich 12Yo such good Whisky, that I can keep one bottle to offer my some visitor, who likes to drink Whisky? Or should I look other brand's?
@zhen898 Think that was on the blended scale, can't compare a blended to a single you know, or more correctly you shouldn't compare a single to a blended ;)
I've educated myself in the scotch world quite enough to know that Glenfiddich 18 is one of the worlds' finest whisky's.I've done the Islay thing with at least 10 different whisky's and Islay whisky's always remind me of somebody dropped a cigar in my drink and Mull seems similar with the 3 I've had from there and the lowland scotch can be tasty as well as the highland but I always go back to the Speyside region,I just enjoy the light fruity/spicy flavor's over the peaty/heavy smoke flavor's.
hi ralfy, you made a face when speaking of the 18yo flenfiddich in this video, i was wondering if you could elaborate on that please, and thank you. i like your videos very much by the way. very well done, and very informative.
Beautiful review.......I had the 12 year old and it was fantastic (better than that horrible tasting shlt Jack Daniels) and I will certainly be getting the 15 year old.....Gosh, I never knew Wishky tasted this good. I don't think I'll be drinking anything else.
@NassguI you're not kidding. i'm hooked myself. i just bought the glenfiddich 18 year old, for $88....it's awesome. i haven't tried it with any water yet thou. have you?
@odmcarp No, I don't like to mix my drink, I drink it dry 90% of the time, unless I'm at a bar but generally at the bar don't have Glenfiddich but some other single malt. I called out sick today, so I'm gonna head to the store and get me the 15 y/o, I'm gonna celebrate, not sure what I will celebrate but I just feel like drinking some good stuff this weekend.
Also, I wish the 18 y/o was that inexpensive here, in Va it's over $100 I believe, the 12 y/o is $55. Oh well, I gotta have it.
@NassguI Yes, go for the 12yo, it's very close to the 18yo, and it's much cheaper.
I just bought some Highland Park 12yo, tonight for $50. My sister gave me a huge bottle of vodka, so i traded it in at the liquor store, and paid the difference $22.
Highland Park is also good, but I prefer the Glenfiddich. I just had a local bar order some Glenfiddich 12yo for when i go in there. She said she would, so i will see next wee if she orders it. Cheer my friend, and don't drink too much.
@Futre4 Nah, I'm starting my legal drinking career. Also, I've been able to go pubs and all that so it's all good. And yes, I wasn't dissapointed. That aftertaste ... wow
Ralfy - the 18yo is often people's favourite when I run tasting events. Any particular reason why you wouldn't buy it at the moment - or just too many others to try? Happy to take an email or PM via facebook if you'd rather not post in public?
I've been drinking single malts for year's and Speyside whiskey's are still my favorite as I don't smoke so I hate the cigar dipped in my booze taste of the Islay malt's.Lowland and Spey whiskey's rule for non smoker's.
Hi, Ralfy i live in Canada and i just began to drink whisky and i would like to know : how can you come up with all those different taste and aroma ? experience maybe? A lot of website say that i should take note about taste and aroma...but how can i do it when i'm unable to identify them? I bought my first bottle: Johnnie Walker Red label and Glenfiddich 12yo. Is it true that Red label is one of the worst whisky ever made ? Thank you !!
I smiled when i saw this post because i remember thinking the EXACT same thing when i started drinking good quality beer. i would watch and read beer reviews and when they would call out the aromas i thought they were freaking crazy saying they could smell this, that and the other. But it is experience, the more you drink the more you will notice the subtle aromas coming out. Just give it time.
ralfy, im kinda confused... i had a taste of some glenfiddich - rather old bottling... it says "special old reserve" - which had no age statement and is described as "pure malt", not single malt. is that just an older bottling? i guess it's from the 90's, were there any changes regarding those economy- definitions? it tasted a little different from your tasting notes here... mainly kinda woody, salty licorice and dried apricots (i liked it as hell!)
@Almlacher ... be confused no longer ! .... Glenfiddich 'rebranded' from the s.o.r. to the 12 yo a few years back, and dispite the Industry claims that Whisky is consistant from bottling to bottling, ... it's not really true. What you have is an "old-school" Glenfiddich which is probably more assertive than the modern 'approachable' single malt.
@ralfystuff thanks alot, ralfy! and yes, that stuff is pretty good... i figured out the real extend of those differences when i tasted the bottle of 12 yo glenfiddich i bought myself yesterday... though that's an awesome dram for the summer time ;)
You were absolutely right about this being a good first single malt. I've only had Johnnie Walker and Chivas Regal blends. I tried the Glenfiddich for the first time because of your review and holy shit, I LOVED it! I really have to be careful not to drink to much of it at one time, it tastes so good to me. No more Johnnie Walker for me. Thanks! I feel like I owe you a bottle. What should I send you?
My favourite range of Malts there on your table!!!
The 12 is a good starter like you said but they do get better as they get older. The 15 and the 18 are still fairly easy to get hold of where I live and I do treat myself from time to time.
The 'Special Reserves' can be a bit harder to hunt down but are worth the effort.
I have also tried the 21 which is in another league and it goes down way too easy for my wallet!!!
Since I started watching your videos, I am a lot more selective of how I purchase me whiskey. Just got back with a bottle of Glenfiddich 15 yr. It was on sale for $39 and included a drinking glass and a small sample bottle of 18 yr. Which would you drink first? 18 yr went down the hatch and I truly enjoyed it. Thanks for the review Ralfy.
@RonMeijers : Glenfiddich 12 yo is also exactly what I started with, and I now also prefer the "medicinal" Islay malts such as Laphroaig, Ardbeg and Lagavulin, but not to forget that great malt from Skye, Talisker.
G'day Ralfy from Sydney Australia. Excellent vids, very informative.
Am just getting into Whisky after dabbling in Cognac and Sherry. I have begun with Laphroaig and Ardbeg (10y) and the Glenfiddich 12y. I notice you never add ice to the scotch is this a no no in tasting or just your personal preference?
I have a slightly older bottle of the Glenfiddich 12 here with the screw top. I am not a whisky drinker at all but I sneaked this from the our drinks cupboard/ sideboard. My Dad is really the whisky drinker, although very rarely. I just wanted to see if I could pick up some aromas. Pretty fun, well daring to say the least. Should I be doing this, no not really. Who cares, we all do crazy things from time to time.
No harm done...hehe...just fooling around abit. Good video reviews though. I love the great wild Scottish outdoors, the mountains, lochs, big dark black clouds and endless blue skies.
Ralfy, please clarify something... I was at the specialized liquor mart today looking for the Solera Reserve. they did not have it, but instead stock the 15 year old, which says that the malt is matured in three types of casks (sherry, bourbon, oak) before being "married" in the Solera vat. although the label does not read "Solera Reserve", is this not essentially the same whisky? if not, what is the difference between this 15 y/o and the Solera Reserve 15? thanks in advance!
When I was in the Bahrain duty free, I bought an 18 y.o. Glenfiddich and was very disappointed. Sharp to the point of distraction. Must have been a bad batch.
...and it was an Alistair MacLean novel (Goodbye California) where I first heard of Glenfiddich. If it's good enough for that Scots sauce-pot, then it's good enough for me!
Bought some a few days ago - it's simple and not too complex, somewhat sweet but definitely fruity and floral. I think it would be great to drink in summer with ice. Very refreshing.
I bought a Glenfiddich 12 years old bottle and I really like it... but here in Canada, the Glenfiddich 18 years old costs nearly 100$ so I don't know if I should buy it afterwards.
good stuff. i forgot the name of this brand, cant wait to get a bottle again.
NitroDSP 2 days ago
83/100 is quite a high mark for me. It's a good 'gateway' to whisky but it's chill filtered with added caramel and too staid for my tastes. Enjoy your reviews though!
uwantoli 1 week ago
I am 19 and my friend and I have recently become interested in whisky. What are some other whiskys you guys would recommend for novices?
enjoiguyy 2 weeks ago
@enjoiguyy
Highland Park 12yo and GlenDronach 12yo
ralfystuff 2 weeks ago
@ralfystuff Thanks a lot! See how it goes!
enjoiguyy 2 weeks ago
@enjoiguyy Glenmorangie Original is exceptional (especially for the price), novice or not - great whisky.
Fedaalis 3 days ago
I havent been drinking whiskey for very long. Maybe October 2011. Started off with JD Gentleman Jack and Makers 46. While my buddy and I were looking for other whiskeys we saw the Ardbeg Ten. Threw some money together and got it. I absolutely loved it! So I guess you can say I started off a little differently than others. The Glenfiddich 12 is really good for the price. Big fan! (but I'll always keep my shelf stocked with either Laphroaig 10, or Ardbeg Ten.
Krigloch 2 weeks ago
I've recently discovered whiskey. And I must say...you are a legend my friend. Keep it up!
gorfjorf2112112 2 weeks ago
all the respect for your review but aluminium does not taste any way,
casian113 3 weeks ago
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oman913 3 weeks ago
Funny, you mentioned you should start someone new to single malts with something that isn't heavy like a Islay whisky. My first single malt was Bowmore 12 year old, and I loved it. I quickly became a single malt enthusiast. What are your favourite single malts, and what would you recommend?
golfguy777 1 month ago
@golfguy777
lok out for Bunnahabhain 12yo @ 46%
ralfystuff 1 month ago
@ralfystuff Tried to look for it, but the don't sell it here in Nova Scotia. Any other favourites you could suggest?
golfguy777 1 month ago
@golfguy777
Highland Park 12yo
ralfystuff 4 weeks ago
@ralfystuff I just recently picked up a bottle of Highland Park 12yo last week, and it is delicious. Thanks for the suggestion!
golfguy777 1 week ago
Hi Ralfy, Is there is a coffee favored Scotch out there?
Genesisfan1989 1 month ago
@Genesisfan1989
no added flavours put into Scotch, try GlenDronach for natural coffee notes or Kahula.
ralfystuff 1 month ago
@ralfystuff i would even recommend Glenfiddich 21 yr old. if you got the coin lol
IAMCanadian4ever 1 month ago
@IAMCanadian4ever
not my first choice !
ralfystuff 1 month ago
great vids! at 43 i finally have the taste for scotch, i just bought the Fiddich 12 for my 2nd bottle.
Question: about a month ago i was asked to find a GOOD bottle of scotch for a friend to give as a gift and could spend $100-200. i didn't know much but came up with a bottle of Fiddich 21 for $150 from an online dealer.
Money isn't really a deal with him so i didn't mind if i overspent .. but he never got back to me to let me know if his brother enjoyed the gift. is it possible he hated it?
cybercat08520 2 months ago
he gave teachers highland cream 88 points and this one 83 i fully agree with him ..
zoroastrian365 2 months ago
@ Geoboers I would suggest Laphroaig 10 or Ardbeg 10
jonathanbarshaul 2 months ago
great review
Arkimedes999 4 months ago
Hey Ralfy! One note you may have forgotten in this review is quite obviously pear!!! I very much detect the pear... Well, I'm actually looking for a whisky less fruity but more smokey and tobacco, what single malt whisky about the same price would you recommend? Thnx!
TheGeboers 4 months ago
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Ormaaj 6 months ago
I enjoy your reviews very much. Thank you Ralfy.
Glenfiddich always takes me to a pine forrest, where I get pine resin and pine needles every time.
PeteX37 6 months ago
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Ormaaj 6 months ago
I changed my mind on the 18yo, after adding a splash of water (I like to add a bit more than Ralfy), it really opened flavour up. Still not as good as the 15yo Solera in my view, a little better than the 12, which is still very good. Ralfy any idea why the 15/18 feel to be stronger than 40%?
supplementscene 6 months ago
@supplementscene
whisky-intensity ! ... this is where the flavour experience in one whisky at 40% seems stronger than another whisky at 40% Intensity variance is common and the reason why some official bottlings are at a higher strength (e.g. 48%) as they would seem feeble at 40% such is the intensity deficite.
ralfystuff 6 months ago
Love gf..Such a gentle flavour
FlashmoreGash 6 months ago
I was sampling along with this video, but I am quite new to whisky and I didn't really taste/smell a lot of the elements you mentioned.
Do you have any tips on becoming more aware of everyting going on in my glass?
veyron92 6 months ago
@veyron92
patience, practice and perseverence. ... good luck !
ralfystuff 6 months ago 7
@veyron92 well theses things take time to develop like Ralfystuff Said Patience and keep trying that's the only way to develop a nose for this sort of thing
rab631 6 months ago
Dear Ralfy, please review Glenfiddich 18 yo
avghanekar123 7 months ago
@avghanekar123
... sorry, not on my List at the moment.
ralfystuff 7 months ago
@avghanekar123 Hi, I was really disapointed with the 18yo Glenfiddich. The 15yo Solera is the best I've ever had and really blew me away (only tried around 10-12 Malts mind you), the 12yo very good, but the 18 I didn't particularly like, overly sweet and more of a simple caramel taste. Gents Aberlour is £16 in Morrisons a very nice dram - better than the 18 Glenfiddich imo and maybe the 12 too but it's all individual preference
supplementscene 6 months ago in playlist Whiskey
@avghanekar123 Hi, I was really disapointed with the 18yo Glenfiddich. The 15yo Solera is the best I've ever had and really blew me away (only tried around 10-12 Malts mind you), the 12yo very good, but the 18 I didn't particularly like, overly sweet and more of a simple caramel taste. Gents Aberlour is £16 in Morrisons a very nice dram - better than the 18 Glenfiddich imo and maybe the 12 too but it's all individual preference
supplementscene 6 months ago in playlist Whiskey
I like the 12, but wow is the 18 smooth
clank4001 7 months ago
I'm a 20 year old male. I bought a bottle of this a few days ago. After a few glasses, and learning how to properly enjoy it, I'm now a scotch drinker for life!
loftymuses 7 months ago
@loftymuses
excellent ! and good luck with the malt-journey !
ralfystuff 7 months ago
After thought (continuation on my last message): What factors effect the texture of a scotch? I love the vibrant amber of JW Black Label and on the higher-end, Glenfarclas 105. I'm curious, though, if there is any relationship between the color of the scotch, and its overall quality or experience. I ask because I've noticed some cheaper single malts, like Speyburn or McClelland's seem to all be a light yellowish shade, and tasting it reminds you how cheap it was.
Thank you for your time!
teezhay 8 months ago
@teezhay
colour in whisky tells you very little about flavour due to the use by most Distillers of added caramel E150a colouring to make the whisky look tastier !
ralfystuff 8 months ago
Hey Ralfy, a scotch novice here. I love your videos, they're very helpful (although my experience with Mr. Walker's Red Label blend wasn't quite as horrifying as yours seemed to have been - indicative of my inexperienced palate no doubt), but when you say "Amber, minus one or two," what do you mean? I understand you're referring to the texture, but the "minus one or two" bit has me confused.
teezhay 8 months ago
@teezhay
Colour ! ... a mid-colour is amber, darker +1 -3 lighter - 1-3 ... keeps things accurate !
ralfystuff 8 months ago
Hey Ralfy, could you please help me? I have a Glenffidich Pure Malt (thats what it says on a label). Is that the sam thing as 12 y.o.? I even went on Glenffidich official web page and i cant find the that whiskey. Is it possible that they change the name for certain markets? I know that, for example, hennessy v.s.o.p. is called hennessy fine de cognac in my country.
minisalveta 8 months ago
@minisalveta
a discontinued older-version (and quality) younger 'fiddich
ralfystuff 8 months ago
You are awesome
quagmisterx 8 months ago
Hello Ralfy, I Have a question for you. But first thank you for recommending Auchentoshan 12 for me, I really enjoyed it. Can you please give me a recommendation of which glenfiddich I should try. Also should I try the glenlivet 18? Here is what my palate likes and hates: I hated the Glenlivet 15 YO and the Glenfiddich 12 YO. I do Like Auchentoshan 12, Glenlivet 12, Macallan 12, and Johnnie Walker Gold and Blue Label. So out of Glenlivet 18, Glenfiddich 15 and 18 which one would I like Best?
wesleytaylorviadomus 9 months ago
@wesleytaylorviadomus
Highland Park 12yo
ralfystuff 9 months ago
This was My first Single Malt Scotch. It has a little less of an Alcoholic burn than some of the other Blends that i've tried.
hillysats 9 months ago
i find this is indeed too wine-y for me on the nose. the palate is easy going kind of sweet and fruity, i get that ''sparkly'' feeling on my tongue like if i was drinking white wine but thats something i do like. all in all very mediocre nose and solid palate. the finish isn't something to get too much excited about but its pleasant i didn't get any aluminum or metal taste.
MrVirusSnake 9 months ago
Ralfy, my cork broke of into the bottle, does this happen often? Will the cork ruin the scotch ?
famileri 10 months ago
@famileri
this does not happen often, but if it does, the whisky will remain fine if a new cork is found or if transfered to another sealable bottle.
When a cork breaks up, it is a weak cork, not necessarily a contaminated cork.
Contaminated corks (bacterial infection) can taint a whisky badly causing a break down in taste.
ralfystuff 10 months ago
@ralfystuff thx Ralfy, your reviews are informative and I just love the accent.
famileri 10 months ago
You have really great reviews Ralfy, you are very knowledgeable and clearly know what you are talking about.
I would like to get your opinion on what is the better scotch: Johnny Walker Black or Glenfiddich 12 year. I know you gave the Black Label a slightly higher score, but was that comparing it to other blends, or to single malts as well?
Alec7777 11 months ago
@Alec7777
JW is a decent Blend, Glenfiddich a good starter Malt, both are worthwhile with their own merits.
I don't lump blends and Singles together as they are different Spirits, like rum and Cachaca.
ralfystuff 11 months ago
@ralfystuff
Thank you for the reply.
Alec7777 11 months ago
Are you sure this should be a single malt for beginners? This week I tried Glenlivet 12, Highland Park 12 and Glenfiddich 12... I find the two first normal, but I can't drink Glenfiddich without a cough... :)
avin1973 11 months ago
Good review as always Ralfy. I've enjoyed one of these Glenfiddich 12 wich came in a nifty copper metallic box. I added quite some water to it (4-5 table spoons) and I defenitely noticed some hint metal in it. Not precisly a bad whiskey but it left me pretty untouched...a nice "overall" single malt I would rather say.
Velodynamic 1 year ago
I want you to do a comic version of one of these tastings I think it would be so funny to see you get slowely rat faced as you test them all .
blobby1972 1 year ago
Corks are more likely to get replaced when pissed, riding, driving or simply walking. Much easier to deal with, even one-handed. I don't understand your "slight touch of aluminium", AFAIK it bears no discernable taste, it is a very reactive metal so may pick up other heavy metals. Solera system comes from sherry.
TheBeebopper 1 year ago
Hey Ralfy great reviews I've been watching your videos and they are very instructive keep it up!, now my question is Im fairly new to single malts, love the taste and the smell of it, I just purchased a bottle of 12 y/o Glenlivet before I found your reviews, so what would be your recomendation to start enjoing single malts...?
scionauttc 1 year ago
@scionauttc
for starters,from light to heavy flavoured ...
Auchentoshan 12yo
Old Pulteney 12yo
Highland Park 12yo
Talisker 10yo
Caol Ila 12yo
Laphroaig cask strength.
.. good luck.
ralfystuff 1 year ago 3
@ralfystuff great, thanks Ralfy!!
scionauttc 1 year ago
@ralfystuff So i started drinking Kentucky straight bourbon so if i wanted to jump into drinking scotch whisky.What would be a good recommendation.The reason for this is i understand what you mean by starting with a full bodied going back to a weaker bodied.It taste like flat pop and doesn't have the sting.Well you are the Professor in Whiskys so thats why ask.Thank you very much and have a wonderful day.
gsdsl 11 months ago
@gsdsl
... look out for Glenmorangie Original !
ralfystuff 11 months ago
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gsdsl 11 months ago
@ralfystuff Thank you for your advice and I will certainly purchase a 750ml bottle of Glenmorangie Original.Here is a brief history of my whiskey journey starting from Woodford Reserve,Makers Mark,Elijah Craig 12 Years,Evan Williams Black Label,Bulleit Bourbon,and just finished the Elmer T Lee Single Barrel.Just to confirm based on your theory of light to heavy flavored malts.Jumping in with the Glenmorangie Original should fit right in?Thank you for the info!
Sincerely,
Chong from Seattle,WA
gsdsl 11 months ago
Speyside? I believe this to be a Highland distillery...?
drumminghunter 1 year ago
@drumminghunter
yes, a highland Distillery in Speyside, maltmadnessdotcom/whisky/map/Scotland
ralfystuff 1 year ago
@ralfystuff
Ralfy, from a geographic standing Speyside is a part of the Highlands, correct?
shuboy05 1 year ago
@shuboy05
correct, Speyside is mid-north east Highlands, but is difined as a Whisky Region in it's own right due to the malt-styles being sweeter and less complex-finish then Highland Whiskies.
Check out the MaltManiacs Interactive Map
ralfystuff 1 year ago
glenfiddich is pisswater
TheVerySpecialThommy 1 year ago
Hi Ralffy! I'm not Whisky's fan, but are Glenfiddich 12Yo such good Whisky, that I can keep one bottle to offer my some visitor, who likes to drink Whisky? Or should I look other brand's?
Mersuharrastaja 1 year ago
@Mersuharrastaja
Glenfiddich 12yo will do just fine for guests. It is a light and approachable Malt.
ralfystuff 1 year ago
Ralfy, what does aluminum taste like?
radbcc 1 year ago
@radbcc
get a piece of tin-foil and taste it. .... yeuch !
ralfystuff 1 year ago
is that a 750ml or 375ml ?
kyle9371 1 year ago
@kyle9371 ... 350ml
ralfystuff 1 year ago
absolutly brilliant whiskey adventure! love your PASSION!
ps Love your hat.....completly finishing the brilliant statement to make at a certain point!
MrMatthieu723 1 year ago
you gave 83/100 to johnnie walker black, glenfiddich is alot better, i agree with you on the black label but this glenfiddich i would give it a 87+
zhen898 1 year ago
@zhen898 Think that was on the blended scale, can't compare a blended to a single you know, or more correctly you shouldn't compare a single to a blended ;)
Lockeline 1 year ago
@zhen898 blended scale, not the same scale.
Lockeline 1 year ago
@ralfystuff what do u mean by aluminium touch?? i don't really get it
manchewl 1 year ago
@manchewl
light metallic note in the flavour. ... chew some tin foil and see !
ralfystuff 1 year ago
@ralfystuff do they add metallic substance for flavour or is it natural??
manchewl 1 year ago
@manchewl
... natural !
ralfystuff 1 year ago
@ralfystuff THx.....
manchewl 1 year ago
Ralfy is a genius...!!
icommand 1 year ago
I've educated myself in the scotch world quite enough to know that Glenfiddich 18 is one of the worlds' finest whisky's.I've done the Islay thing with at least 10 different whisky's and Islay whisky's always remind me of somebody dropped a cigar in my drink and Mull seems similar with the 3 I've had from there and the lowland scotch can be tasty as well as the highland but I always go back to the Speyside region,I just enjoy the light fruity/spicy flavor's over the peaty/heavy smoke flavor's.
blitzspeer 1 year ago
hi ralfy, you made a face when speaking of the 18yo flenfiddich in this video, i was wondering if you could elaborate on that please, and thank you. i like your videos very much by the way. very well done, and very informative.
odmcarp 1 year ago
@odmcarp
yes I did ! .... I was very disappointed in the quality, of what is termed a 'bad batch'.
We should not be expected to pay money and hope we are lucky in what we get.
More recent versions are better, ... apparently.
ralfystuff 1 year ago
@ralfystuff It got batch no. 3312 is this a bad batch or did I get a good one?
I don't have the knowledge, and experience you have, but it tastes fine to me.
odmcarp 1 year ago
@odmcarp
... don't know that one, but younger Malts are generally more consistent.
If it tastes fine, ... it is fine !
ralfystuff 1 year ago
can you review the tesco value whisky lol
monkeymagic1986 1 year ago
@monkeymagic1986
not for a while yet, ... but the Highland 12yo is the one !
ralfystuff 1 year ago
Beautiful review.......I had the 12 year old and it was fantastic (better than that horrible tasting shlt Jack Daniels) and I will certainly be getting the 15 year old.....Gosh, I never knew Wishky tasted this good. I don't think I'll be drinking anything else.
NassguI 1 year ago
@NassguI you're not kidding. i'm hooked myself. i just bought the glenfiddich 18 year old, for $88....it's awesome. i haven't tried it with any water yet thou. have you?
odmcarp 1 year ago
@odmcarp No, I don't like to mix my drink, I drink it dry 90% of the time, unless I'm at a bar but generally at the bar don't have Glenfiddich but some other single malt. I called out sick today, so I'm gonna head to the store and get me the 15 y/o, I'm gonna celebrate, not sure what I will celebrate but I just feel like drinking some good stuff this weekend.
Also, I wish the 18 y/o was that inexpensive here, in Va it's over $100 I believe, the 12 y/o is $55. Oh well, I gotta have it.
NassguI 1 year ago
@NassguI Yes, go for the 12yo, it's very close to the 18yo, and it's much cheaper.
I just bought some Highland Park 12yo, tonight for $50. My sister gave me a huge bottle of vodka, so i traded it in at the liquor store, and paid the difference $22.
Highland Park is also good, but I prefer the Glenfiddich. I just had a local bar order some Glenfiddich 12yo for when i go in there. She said she would, so i will see next wee if she orders it. Cheer my friend, and don't drink too much.
odmcarp 1 year ago
curious where the citrus notes come from? cheers
FletcherHabit 1 year ago
@FletcherHabit
barley citrus, ... the slight vinegar-grain thing in the development.
ralfystuff 1 year ago
Glenfiddich, my poison of choice... Perfect for those nights when you want to remember, never forget!
Alexandruioancuza 1 year ago
I turn 20 today which is the legal age for bying alcohol in Sweden and this was my drink of choice. I doubt it will dissapoint me
gurra9 1 year ago
@gurra9
... happy Birthday malt-mate ... and have a good time with your Whisky.
ralfystuff 1 year ago
@gurra9
Happy Birthday gurra. Good choice for starting your exploration of malt whiskies - be sure to try some of the other Glenfiddich's too!
(and hello Ralfy - thanks for this vlog, nice review. Hope the new bothy's got a cosy fire for the coming winter!)
jiggybunnet 1 year ago
@gurra9 your starting your drinking career with glenfiddich 12 year old?. I hope its not too strong for you :) . Happy birthday
Futre4 1 year ago
@Futre4 Nah, I'm starting my legal drinking career. Also, I've been able to go pubs and all that so it's all good. And yes, I wasn't dissapointed. That aftertaste ... wow
gurra9 1 year ago
Is that bottle of Glenfiddich half size? It looks smaller than the other two on the table.
shuboy05 1 year ago
@shuboy05
... yes, it is a half size bottle.
ralfystuff 1 year ago
Hey Ralfy! How about the Glenfiddich 18 (not ancient reserve) Is the standard 18 a Solera like the 15? Recommended? Thanks!
matt999tye 1 year ago
@matt999tye
... only the 15 yo is a solera Malt, whilst I don't review the 18yo as I would not buy it at the moment.
ralfystuff 1 year ago
@ralfystuff
Ralfy - the 18yo is often people's favourite when I run tasting events. Any particular reason why you wouldn't buy it at the moment - or just too many others to try? Happy to take an email or PM via facebook if you'd rather not post in public?
jiggybunnet 1 year ago
@jiggybunnet
hello !
The last bottle of 18yo I bought could not be reviewed.
Malt batches do vary as we know, but be reasured, the bottle was gifted to a grateful neighbour who enjoyed it (with ice).
Perhaps sometime later I will try the updated 18yo.
ralfystuff 1 year ago
@ralfystuff
Thanks for the reply Ralfy.
Good review of a nice approachable Glenfiddich 12yo - love the "gentle hug" comment. :-)
Malt batches and the growing number of cask bottlings do indeed vary and one should never be afraid to do a Robert the Bruce and "try, try again".
Jamie.
jiggybunnet 1 year ago
Yeah My last names Fiddick I am made of Whiskey??
mikeydo00 1 year ago
My first Single Malt. You cannot forget your first love. I still like it a lot.
Ichnos76 1 year ago
This was the first single malt and actually the first whisky I ever tasted. It got me instantly hooked.
gunslingernz 1 year ago
@gunslingernz for me too :D
Ichnos76 1 year ago
Utterly agree with Ralfy on the 15 YO Solera. It's the only Glenfiddich which I've found memorable.
Good, easily available and a classic case of why age doesn't equal improvement (the 18's nowhere near as good).
DrClaw78 1 year ago
I've been drinking single malts for year's and Speyside whiskey's are still my favorite as I don't smoke so I hate the cigar dipped in my booze taste of the Islay malt's.Lowland and Spey whiskey's rule for non smoker's.
blitzspeer 1 year ago
@blitzspeer I totally agree!
Ichnos76 1 year ago
Great review, Ralfy. Thanks, from a fellow Scot.
grenadeserenade 1 year ago 2
Hi, Ralfy i live in Canada and i just began to drink whisky and i would like to know : how can you come up with all those different taste and aroma ? experience maybe? A lot of website say that i should take note about taste and aroma...but how can i do it when i'm unable to identify them? I bought my first bottle: Johnnie Walker Red label and Glenfiddich 12yo. Is it true that Red label is one of the worst whisky ever made ? Thank you !!
Daraydotmpeg 1 year ago
@Daraydotmpeg
I smiled when i saw this post because i remember thinking the EXACT same thing when i started drinking good quality beer. i would watch and read beer reviews and when they would call out the aromas i thought they were freaking crazy saying they could smell this, that and the other. But it is experience, the more you drink the more you will notice the subtle aromas coming out. Just give it time.
zaq37 1 year ago
@Daraydotmpeg
... so much of smell and taste analysis is down to experience, whilst a good sense of smell really helps.
... Red Label is for mixing, not for sipping.
ralfystuff 1 year ago
ralfy, im kinda confused... i had a taste of some glenfiddich - rather old bottling... it says "special old reserve" - which had no age statement and is described as "pure malt", not single malt. is that just an older bottling? i guess it's from the 90's, were there any changes regarding those economy- definitions? it tasted a little different from your tasting notes here... mainly kinda woody, salty licorice and dried apricots (i liked it as hell!)
best greetings - from germany, of course!
Almlacher 1 year ago
@Almlacher ... be confused no longer ! .... Glenfiddich 'rebranded' from the s.o.r. to the 12 yo a few years back, and dispite the Industry claims that Whisky is consistant from bottling to bottling, ... it's not really true. What you have is an "old-school" Glenfiddich which is probably more assertive than the modern 'approachable' single malt.
...... enjoyable stuff too.
ralfystuff 1 year ago
@ralfystuff thanks alot, ralfy! and yes, that stuff is pretty good... i figured out the real extend of those differences when i tasted the bottle of 12 yo glenfiddich i bought myself yesterday... though that's an awesome dram for the summer time ;)
Almlacher 1 year ago
You were absolutely right about this being a good first single malt. I've only had Johnnie Walker and Chivas Regal blends. I tried the Glenfiddich for the first time because of your review and holy shit, I LOVED it! I really have to be careful not to drink to much of it at one time, it tastes so good to me. No more Johnnie Walker for me. Thanks! I feel like I owe you a bottle. What should I send you?
mrbubetube 1 year ago
My favourite range of Malts there on your table!!!
The 12 is a good starter like you said but they do get better as they get older. The 15 and the 18 are still fairly easy to get hold of where I live and I do treat myself from time to time.
The 'Special Reserves' can be a bit harder to hunt down but are worth the effort.
I have also tried the 21 which is in another league and it goes down way too easy for my wallet!!!
I also can't wait to get my hands on the 30!!!
secretscot 1 year ago
Since I started watching your videos, I am a lot more selective of how I purchase me whiskey. Just got back with a bottle of Glenfiddich 15 yr. It was on sale for $39 and included a drinking glass and a small sample bottle of 18 yr. Which would you drink first? 18 yr went down the hatch and I truly enjoyed it. Thanks for the review Ralfy.
Bromeliad1 1 year ago
Glenfiddich 12 is the reason I fell in love with whisky, although I've developed a taste for Islay whisky's nowadays. Laphroaig, Ardbeg et cetera.
RonMeijers 2 years ago 11
@RonMeijers : Glenfiddich 12 yo is also exactly what I started with, and I now also prefer the "medicinal" Islay malts such as Laphroaig, Ardbeg and Lagavulin, but not to forget that great malt from Skye, Talisker.
HappyDay989 8 months ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
glenfiddich is rubbish. aberlour kicks the ass off of any malt.
poodle1980 2 years ago
im sad to say i didnt care for the glenfiddich 12 hmm maybe im just a islay guy
Silky2dope 2 years ago 2
G'day Ralfy from Sydney Australia. Excellent vids, very informative.
Am just getting into Whisky after dabbling in Cognac and Sherry. I have begun with Laphroaig and Ardbeg (10y) and the Glenfiddich 12y. I notice you never add ice to the scotch is this a no no in tasting or just your personal preference?
nrejones 2 years ago
I never add ice as this chills the Whisky and supresses the full nose and flavour from developing, and it's for smell and flavour that we buy Whisky.
ralfystuff 2 years ago
I have a slightly older bottle of the Glenfiddich 12 here with the screw top. I am not a whisky drinker at all but I sneaked this from the our drinks cupboard/ sideboard. My Dad is really the whisky drinker, although very rarely. I just wanted to see if I could pick up some aromas. Pretty fun, well daring to say the least. Should I be doing this, no not really. Who cares, we all do crazy things from time to time.
thegreatbasher 2 years ago
... your bad, bad, bad, and you know it, know it, know it !!!
.... tell him what you did on his 80th Birthday, and BEG for his forgivness.
PS ... you smell more keenly when doing bad things.
ralfystuff 2 years ago
No harm done...hehe...just fooling around abit. Good video reviews though. I love the great wild Scottish outdoors, the mountains, lochs, big dark black clouds and endless blue skies.
thegreatbasher 2 years ago
I am new to this.
could you tell me which one is lighter glenlivet 12yrs or glenfiddich 12yrs? I think glenlivet am i right?
starlover123 2 years ago
for a 'lighter' flavour, both are not too far from each other, but Glenfiddich wins by a small margin.
ralfystuff 2 years ago
i cannot wait to try this 15yo (the new solera) Im new to scotch, and this will be my first single malt. Only had Blended Johnnie Walkers before.....
930989 2 years ago
Ralfy, please clarify something... I was at the specialized liquor mart today looking for the Solera Reserve. they did not have it, but instead stock the 15 year old, which says that the malt is matured in three types of casks (sherry, bourbon, oak) before being "married" in the Solera vat. although the label does not read "Solera Reserve", is this not essentially the same whisky? if not, what is the difference between this 15 y/o and the Solera Reserve 15? thanks in advance!
epistades1 2 years ago
.... oh! the weird and wonderful ways of Whisky !
What you have is 'Solera Reserve' by it's new name, 15 yo (solera'd a bit !)
.... so essentially the same thing, just a bit different, younger, rawer.
... any further information will be found at the Distillery's enquiry desk.
Personally, the 'new' Glenfiddich 15 is OK, but don't bother with the 18yo.
ralfystuff 2 years ago
i didnt like this stuff it was real ruff going down but then again i was drunk alredy when i tried this stuff id give it 3/5
filtertime 2 years ago
Best whisky I ever had: 25 y.o. Glen Grant.
2nd Place: 18 y.o. Macallan
3rd: Glenfiddich (my standard)
When I was in the Bahrain duty free, I bought an 18 y.o. Glenfiddich and was very disappointed. Sharp to the point of distraction. Must have been a bad batch.
...and it was an Alistair MacLean novel (Goodbye California) where I first heard of Glenfiddich. If it's good enough for that Scots sauce-pot, then it's good enough for me!
RestiveBob7137 2 years ago
imo glenfiddich 12 is the best single malt in it's price range...same goes for the 18 yo.
both exceptional whisky's
I must say i wasnt that impressed with the 15 yo.
Its a good whisky no doubt but it' just a bit better then the 12 year old and doesnt even come close the the smoothnes of the 18 yo
19Renegade87 2 years ago
Bought some a few days ago - it's simple and not too complex, somewhat sweet but definitely fruity and floral. I think it would be great to drink in summer with ice. Very refreshing.
b3nry 2 years ago
@b3nry No ice please :D
Ichnos76 1 year ago
Have to agree - the 15yo is the best by far. Superb whisky.
Another great review!
butephoto 2 years ago
please dont cut them down :)
the Glenfiddich , squeaky pirate cork, the nose, big green apple for me, quite fun. short and sweet finish.
that's all i can sense right now.
ralpy, you totally rule. :p
BA0084 2 years ago
I bought a Glenfiddich 12 years old bottle and I really like it... but here in Canada, the Glenfiddich 18 years old costs nearly 100$ so I don't know if I should buy it afterwards.
IloveAlexisBledel689 3 years ago 5