The Glenfiddich 18 year old is a rich and fruity single malt. Glenfiddich are mass producers of whisky, and some whisky snobs will have you believe that that makes their whisky below average. I find their whiskies of 15 years and older to be routinely very good, and the 18 year old is no exception.
Let me be up front: I think one of the reasons the Glenfiddich 18 year old is good is because it’s affordable. I hesitate to say ‘cheap’, but it’s definitely a few dollars less than many other 18 year olds. Selling lots of whisky and having a prominent brand name means that you can afford to sell a bit more cheaply.
The Glenfiddich 18 year old is matured in sherry and bourbon casks, but doesn’t have strong sherry flavors. If anything, the richness of the sherry compliments the fruity flavors without being overbearing.
The nose of this whisky is extremely fruity with a hint of nut, and this theme continues in to the taste as well. On initial taste, nutty flavors dominate, but they quickly fade in to fruit flavors. Red and blue berries are the main theme, with some orange and the slightest hint of apple as well. The body is about medium, but satisfying enough and enough to coat the mouth.
Interestingly, the Glenfiddich 18 often loses out to the Glenfiddich 15 in many people’s preferences. It’s unclear exactly why, but the 15 year old is just that little bit more. The Glenfiddich 18 year old is certainly pleasing enough and will suit almost everyone’s palate as its not at all overbearing or offensive. It’s a great way to impress a casual whisky drinker as a gift, but experienced whisky drinkers may want to look for another 18 year old such as the Laphroaig 18 or Highland Park 18.
Glenfiddich 18 Year Old Information
- Type: Single malt Scotch Whisky
- Region: Speyside
- ABV: 40%