The Glenlivet is one of the best-selling Scotch whisky in the world, with 1.2 million cases sold in 2021. With the Excise Act passing in 1823, the tides have changed for Scotch whisky makers, but that does not stop The Glenlivet from producing the finest Scotch whiskies.
Today, let’s talk about The Glenlivet 12- price, rich history, and production process.
About The Glenlivet 12-Year-Old Scotch Whisky
Glenlivet 12-Year-Old Scotch whisky is a classic Speyside single malt whisky with rich history and elegant taste. It is the best-selling single malt Scotch in America, and it is easy to drink, tasty and accessible.
The Glenlivet 12-Year-Old Scotch whisky is matured in traditional oak then American cask for its distinctive smoothness and complex character.
It has a rich history and production process. The tasting notes are also lauded for their value and price.
Key Facts
History & Origin
The Livet valley is the home of The Glenlivet, tucked away in the Speyside region. It is far away from the prying eyes of the government in the 1800s.
George Smith is the brand’s founder, and even if the production of the whisky is illegal before, King George IV of Great Britain asked to taste his whisky when he visited Scotland.
It was 1823 when the Excise Act was passed in Scotland, wherein whisky makers should obtain a license to distill [1]. In 1824, the brand jumped at the opportunity to become the first legal distillery in Glenlivet.
How It’s Made
The Glenlivet’s pride is made from barley sourced from Portgordon. It is malted and mashed before undergoing two days of fermentation in wooden washbacks.
After fermentation, the spirit is distilled in Glenlivet’s wash still before going through Glenlivet’s spirit still to remove impurities.
Following the distillation is the aging, where the spirit is first aged in traditional oak and then in American oak casks for a total of twelve years.
Raw Materials
The Glenlivet 12 is a single malt Scotch whisky produced using barley sourced from Crisp Malting, Portgordon. The locally sourced grain comes from a village in Moray, Scotland.
Unlike other types of Scotch whisky, the spirit is made with a single malt – barley and not combined with other grains.
Ownership & Distillery
George Smith owns The Glenlivet, and after his death, the legacy continues with his youngest son John Gordon Smith. The Glenlivet Distillery is located in Glenlivet, Scotland, near the remote Livet Valley.
It is tucked in Scotland’s Speyside region, far away from the eyes of Custom Officers and soldiers.
Trivia: In 1884, John Smith won the right to be the only distillery with the name Glenlivet as long as it has a preceded article “The.” It is to differentiate their family’s distillery from competitors who are desperate to capitalize on their established brand.
Tasting Notes
- Palate – Well-balanced flavor profile, candied nuts, strong pineapple notes, sweet vanilla cookies, and a hint of toffee
- Nose – Fruity, citrusy, vanilla, and classic Speyside single malt aroma
- Color/Hue – Medium to light honey and vibrant gold
- Finish – Long, smooth, creamy, citrusy, and sweet
Common Glenlivet 12-Year-Old Scotch Whisky Price
| Type | Size | Alcohol By Volume | Average Price |
| Glenlivet 12-Year-Old Scotch Whisky | 750 ml | 40% | $51.24 |
| 1.0 L | $63.99 |
*Average prices are based on Drizly online. Prices may vary in local liquor shops.
Compared to Other Scotch Whiskies
Ardbeg 10 Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Ardbeg 10 Year Single Malt Scotch whisky can be an alternative to The Glenlivet 12, and you can score a 750 ml bottle for $61.03 in Drizly online.
It can be a little more expensive than Glenlivet 12, but it has an amazing smoky taste you cannot find in other spirits.
The Macallan Double Cask 12-Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
The Macallan Double Cask 12-Year-Old has a perfectly balanced and rich flavor that you can line up with The Glenlivet 12.
It has the same age statement, and if you want to try it, a 750 ml bottle is approximately $79.99, which is more expensive than both Glenlivet and Ardbeg.
Laphroaig Select Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
If you want a unique flavor profile, Laphroaig Select Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a nice option for Glenlivet. A 750 ml is just shy of $53.99 and is almost the same price range as Glenlivet 12.
However, it has different tasting notes and is not recommended if you want almost the same flavor profile as Glenlivet 12.
Also Read:
Common Glenlivet 12-Year-Old Scotch Whisky Cocktails
Old Fashioned Cocktail
Prep Time: 8 mins
Total Time: 10 mins
Ingredients:
- 50 ml Glenlivet 12-Year-Old
- 5 g Unrefined cane sugar
- 2 dashes of perfect bitters blend
- Orange twist
Instructions:
Combine two parts of Angostura bitters and one part of Bob’s Bitters Orange, Fee Brother’s Plum, Mandarin, and Peychaud’s bitters for the perfect bitters blend, then set aside.
In a glass, dissolve the sugar in whisky, then pour the perfect bitters blend. Stir for a minute, combine the remaining whisky, and serve with an orange twist.
Serving: 1
The Glenlivet Whisky Sour
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
- 50 ml The Glenlivet 12-Year-Old
- 25 ml Lemon Juice
- 12 ml Egg white or Aquafaba (Optional)
- 12 ml Simple Syrup
Instructions:
Pour all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake it well, then strain it into a glass, then enjoy.
Serving: 1
FAQs Related to Glenlivet 12 Price
Is Glenlivet 12 top shelf?
Glenlivet 12 is often regarded as a premium single malt Scotch whisky, appreciated for its smoothness, complexity, and well-balanced flavor profile.
While opinions may vary on what constitutes “top shelf” whisky, Glenlivet 12 is highly respected within the whisky community and is frequently enjoyed by connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.
Its quality and reputation contribute to its classification as a top-quality whisky, suitable for both casual sipping and special occasions.
Is Glenlivet 12 being discontinued?
As of the latest information available, there have been no official announcements regarding the discontinuation of Glenlivet 12. However, the whisky industry is subject to changes in production, distribution, and marketing strategies, which can sometimes affect the availability of specific products.
Glenlivet 12 has been a staple offering in many markets for years, and it remains a popular choice among whisky enthusiasts.
To stay informed about any developments regarding the availability of Glenlivet 12 or other whiskies, it’s advisable to keep an eye on official announcements from the brand or consult with retailers for the latest updates.
How Much Does a Bottle of Glenlivet 12 Typically Cost?
The cost of a bottle of Glenlivet 12 can vary depending on factors such as location, retailer, and any promotions or discounts offered. Generally, Glenlivet 12 is positioned as a premium whisky and is priced accordingly.
At Costco, where bulk purchasing and membership discounts may apply, you can typically expect to find competitive pricing for Glenlivet 12 compared to other retailers.
Prices may range from approximately $30 to $50 per bottle, though they can vary based on market conditions and other factors.
To get the most accurate pricing information, it’s recommended to check with your local Costco or their online platform for current pricing and availability.
Is Glenlivet 12 Expensive Compared to Other Whiskies?
The cost of Glenlivet 12 can vary depending on several factors, including region, retailer, and market demand. While Glenlivet 12 is generally positioned as a premium single malt Scotch whisky, its pricing may vary compared to other whiskies.
Some may consider Glenlivet 12 to be priced competitively for its quality and reputation, while others may find it relatively more expensive compared to certain alternatives.
Ultimately, whether Glenlivet 12 is considered expensive depends on individual preferences, budget considerations, and the perceived value of the whisky.
Can I Find Glenlivet 12 at Different Price Points?
Yes, you can typically find Glenlivet 12 offered at different price points depending on where you purchase it. Factors such as retailer promotions, discounts, and bundle deals can influence the price of Glenlivet 12.
Additionally, the size of the bottle (e.g., standard 750ml vs. larger or smaller sizes) and packaging (e.g., gift sets) may also affect the price.
At Costco, where bulk purchasing and membership discounts may apply, you may find competitive pricing for Glenlivet 12 compared to other retailers. It’s advisable to shop around and compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best value for your preferences and budget.
Is Glenlivet 12 a Good Value for the Price?
Many whisky enthusiasts consider Glenlivet 12 to be a good value for its smoothness, flavor complexity, and accessibility at an affordable price point.
Final Thoughts
The Glenlivet 12-Year whisky is a single malt, doubled matured spirit from the Speyside region. It has the distinctive smoothness and classic taste of a single malt whisky. Moreso, the brand has a rich history and great reputation for crafting excellent whiskies.
Since The Glenlivet cannot keep up with the high demand, The Glenlivet 12 has been replaced with a NAS Founder’s Reserve, which explains the Glenlivet 12 price.
If you managed to get a bottle, savor each sip because it is indeed a great and rare Scotch whisky.
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