Cragganmore 12 and Glenfiddich 12 Single Malt Scotch Whisky: Which Is Right for You?
When it comes to single malt Scotch, the world of whisky is a deep, complex, and incredibly rewarding place. But if you’ve ever stood in the liquor store, staring at the shelves, wondering whether to grab the Cragganmore 12 and Glenfiddich 12 Single Malt Scotch Whisky, you’re not alone. These two Speyside single malts are often placed side-by-side, both in the aisle and in conversations among whisky lovers.
So… which one’s better?
Well, that depends on your taste, your mood, and maybe even your budget. In this in-depth comparison, we’re diving into everything—from aroma to flavor to finish—to help you decide which bottle deserves a spot on your shelf.
A Quick Intro to the Contenders
When it comes to entry-level single malt Scotch whisky, Cragganmore 12 and Glenfiddich 12 are two of the most popular and respected names in the game. Both hail from Scotland’s famed Speyside region, but they offer very different experiences in the glass. Glenfiddich 12 is known for its light, approachable, fruity character that makes it a go-to for beginners and casual drinkers alike. On the other hand, Cragganmore 12 brings a richer, more complex flavor profile with a touch of peat, appealing to those who want something with a little more depth. Whether you’re new to whisky or expanding your palate, these two classics offer a great starting point for comparison.
But while they come from the same region, these two whiskies have very different personalities.
Cragganmore 12 is often considered a more complex, slightly peaty Speyside malt with an old-school charm. It’s crafted for those who enjoy layered, nuanced flavours.
Glenfiddich 12, on the other hand, is probably the most widely recognized single malt globally. It’s smooth, fruity, and extremely accessible—great for beginners and a go-to for many seasoned drinkers.
Let’s break them down and compare every detail.
Cragganmore 12 and Glenfiddich 12 Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Cragganmore 12: The Quiet Intellectual of Speyside
Nose (Aromas)
Cragganmore greets you with a warm, inviting nose. You’ll get notes of orange peel, lemon zest, and fresh orchard fruits, but what sets it apart is a whisper of peat—not enough to dominate, but just enough to make you do a double-take. There’s also a light smokiness under all the fruit, plus subtle herbal tones and honey.
The nose feels complex and slightly mysterious, like there’s more beneath the surface.
Palate (Taste)
On the tongue, Cragganmore is silky and full-bodied. It hits you with sweet malty flavors, almost like fresh-baked bread drizzled with honey. Then the richness starts to unfold: toffee, nuts, a touch of smoke, and some dried herbs all join the party.
There’s real depth here. It’s not overly sweet or heavy, but it’s definitely more layered than your average entry-level malt.
Finish (Aftertaste)
The finish on Cragganmore is long and mellow. You’re left with lingering oak, a soft warmth, and a bit of that subtle smoke that you first picked up in the nose. It’s satisfying without being overpowering.
Who Is It For?
Cragganmore 12 isn’t trying to win a popularity contest—it’s crafted for people who like to sit, sip, and think. If you’ve already tasted a few single malts and want something with more complexity, structure, and subtle peat, this might be your new favorite.
It’s approachable but not basic. Great for a contemplative evening pour.
Fun Facts
- Cragganmore was founded in 1869 by John Smith, one of the most accomplished distillers of his time.
- The whisky is aged in second-fill bourbon casks, which helps highlight its softer fruit and herbal notes.
- It’s often overlooked by casual shoppers, which is a shame—but also kind of a win for those in the know.
Price
Expect to pay around $75 for a 750ml bottle of Cragganmore 12 and Glenfiddich 12 Single Malt Scotch Whisky in most U.S. markets. It’s not cheap, but it’s reasonably priced for a single malt with this much personality.
Cragganmore 12 and Glenfiddich 12 Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Glenfiddich 12: The Smooth Operator
Nose (Aromas)
Glenfiddich 12 opens up with bright, fresh green apple, pear, and floral notes. There’s also a soft sweetness that hints at honey and vanilla. It’s incredibly clean and inviting—nothing harsh, nothing too complex.
This is the kind of nose that makes a newcomer say, “Wow, this smells good,” without feeling overwhelmed.
Palate (Taste)
Take a sip and you’ll get exactly what the nose promised: light fruits, a gentle touch of oak, and maybe a bit of citrus zest. The texture is silky and smooth, but more on the light side than Cragganmore.
There’s no smoke here, no unexpected turns—just an easy-going malt that goes down without resistance.
Finish (Aftertaste)
The finish is clean and short-to-medium in length. You might catch a hint of pear skin or oak, but there’s no heat, no bitterness. Just a soft goodbye.
Who Is It For?
Glenfiddich 12 is the perfect beginner’s Scotch. It’s smooth, fruity, and consistent. If you’re just getting into whisky, or if you’re looking for a dependable daily dram, this is a smart pick.
It may not blow away veteran whisky geeks looking for fireworks, but it earns its place through simplicity and reliability.
Fun Facts
- Glenfiddich was founded in 1887 and is still family-owned.
- It’s the best-selling single malt in the world, available in over 180 countries.
- The 12-year is aged in a combination of American oak and European sherry casks, giving it that smooth vanilla-pear profile.
Price
A bottle of Glenfiddich 12 will usually run you about $50–$55, depending on your location. For the price, it’s a fantastic deal—and probably why it ends up in so many home bars.
Side-by-Side Showdown
Cragganmore 12 and Glenfiddich 12 Single Malt Scotch Whisky
| Feature | Cragganmore 12 | Glenfiddich 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Speyside | Speyside |
| Nose | Fruity, lightly peated, herbal | Bright, floral, pear, apple |
| Palate | Rich, malty, layered, soft smoke | Smooth, light, fruity |
| Finish | Long, oaky, warm | Short-medium, clean, subtle |
| Best For | Intermediate to advanced drinkers | Beginners, casual sippers |
| Price | ~$75 | ~$52 |
| Complexity | High | Moderate |
| Smoke Level | Low | None |
| Cask Type | Second-fill bourbon | American oak + sherry oak |
So… Which One Should You Buy?
Honestly, you can’t go wrong with either. But here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose based on your taste:
- Choose Cragganmore 12 if you want something more sophisticated, layered, and smoky. It’s a whisky you’ll want to sit with, analyze, and savour. Think of it as a quiet conversation that becomes more meaningful the longer you listen.
- Choose Glenfiddich 12 if you’re new to Scotch or want a bottle everyone will enjoy. It’s smooth, fruity, and highly drinkable—perfect for sharing or for a relaxed pour at the end of a long day.
Final Thoughts: The Verdict Is Yours
In the world of single malt Scotch, personal taste is everything. There’s no absolute “winner” in a face-off like this—only preferences and experiences.
If you’re exploring Speyside and want to taste its range, these two whiskies make an excellent starting point. Glenfiddich 12 offers a welcoming handshake. Cragganmore 12 offers a deep conversation. Depending on the kind of evening you’re planning, either could be the right companion.
So go ahead—pour a dram, take a sip, and see which story speaks to you more.
Cheers to great whisky and even better choices. 🥃
