Some random Glenlivet and Glenfiddich thoughts

[Alexppp]

So I tried the Glenlivet 15 yesterday for the first time and was a bit disappointed. The nose had that classic Glenlivet freshness, but after that I found it a bit unbalanced - sweeter than the 12 but also somehow drier, which left a strange aftertaste. Not sure I'd have detected a cognac influence had I not known in advance. Overall, I found it inferior to the 12 year-old, which in turn I find inferior to the 12 First Fill. Anyone else have the impression that older in the Glenlivet (at least as far as the 15 y/o is concerned) isn't necessarily better?

I also opened my new bottle of Glenfiddich 15, and was really impressed. I didn't expect a Glenfiddich to be so rich and varied in flavour. Fruity, spicy, and with a long, sweet finish. Considerably different to Glenfiddich 12, which is simpler, more straightforward and is arguably easier to drink on any occasion. (but hey, I guess that's what makes it deservedly popular)

It seems to me both distilleries went for a lot of experimentation with their 15 year-old expressions, Glenfiddich with the Solera vat and the Glenlivet with the cognac casks, although in my opinion only Glenfiddich's experiment was an unequivocal success.

[SkyeIslay]

i don't think the Glenlivet 15 is that bad, though I agree Glenfiddich have done a better job with their 15 year-old with the Solera.

If you were to compare the two distilleries, I think the Glenlivet has a slight edge as far as the 12 and 18 year-olds are concerned, but Glenfiddich has a considerably better 15 year-old. Have you tried the Glenlivet 18? It might change your mind about older not being better in the Glenlivet

[Bookie]

I have always found the Glenlivet 12 a great buy, usually around £20 when on offer, a pleasant fresh easy to drink whisky - malty, fruity, green apples vanilla. The Glenlivet 15 is a let down for me, pleasant enough but not one i rush to buy again even when on offer. The 18, 21 and Nadurra are my choices from the Glenlivet range.

I agree the Glenfiddich 15 is excellent, for me Glenfiddich has a core range that seems to improve with age form 12, 15, 18, 21 up to the 30. Never thought much of the Glenfiddich Caoran Reserve but the 14 year old rich oak was pretty good.

[Innes]

I find that the Glenfiddich 15 is very easy to drink so is the 18, i picked up a bottle of each while they where on offer over christmas. I also enjoy the Glenlivet range but not too fussed on there 15 year old french oak.

[SkyeIslay]

[Carson]

[newwhiskyworld]

I have not had the 15YO Glenlivet but have enjoyed plenty of the Glenfiddich 15. I personally think it is even better than the 18YO. Over the last few weeks I have been especially enjoying it as for me it tastes like a slice of Christmas cake in a glass.