Glenlivet 12 Years Whisky Review/Tasting

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glenlivet Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: The specific details of the distillation process are not mentioned, but the whisky is aged for 12 years. The maturation process might involve ex-bourbon and possibly sherry casks, as inferred from the flavor profile.
Age Statement: 12 years.
Color & Clarity: Bright, with artificial coloring.
Bottle Design: The bottle is green, with periodic updates to stay modern. It is packaged in a stable cardboard box and wrapped in special paper for an exclusive feel.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky offers a balance between maltiness, sweetness, and fruitiness, with a notable complexity for a high-volume product.
Unique Characteristics: Vibrant aromas of summer meadows, tropical fruits (notably pineapple), fresh peaches, pears, vanilla, marzipan, and fresh hazelnuts. The palate includes maltiness, vanilla, caramel, gentle citrus notes, and a light alcoholic note. The finish brings deeper fruit notes, possibly with some sherry influence, maltiness, and developing oakiness.
Comparison: While specific comparisons are not made, the Glenlivet 12 is implied to be a benchmark for quality in its category.

Distillery History: Glenlivet was the first licensed distillery in its region, gaining fame in Scotland, Great Britain, and the world. Its high quality led other distilleries to add "Glenlivet" to their names.
Production Expansion: Due to high demand, Glenlivet doubled its capacity with a new still house in 2010.

Name Origin: "Glenlivet" refers to the valley (Glen) of the Livet river. Its historical significance as the first licensed distillery in the region is highlighted.
Popularity: Glenlivet 12 is noted as the most often sold single malt whisky globally as of 2015/2016 and is particularly popular in the US.

Horst Luening, the mastertaster, praises the whisky for its distillery character and maturation process, giving it credits before tasting. He emphasizes the subjective nature of taste and encourages viewers to form their own opinions.

Glenlivet 12 is a single malt Scotch whisky with a 12-year age statement, known for its balance of maltiness, sweetness, and fruitiness.
It has a rich history as the first licensed distillery in its region, contributing to its fame and the mimicry of its name by other distilleries.
The whisky is popular globally, especially in the US, and is considered a benchmark for quality in its category.
The review emphasizes the subjective nature of taste and encourages personal exploration of the whisky.

For Beginners: The Glenlivet 12's balanced flavor profile and global popularity make it an excellent introduction to single malt Scotch whisky.
For Connoisseurs: The historical significance and the subtle complexity of flavors, possibly including sherry cask influence, may appeal to experienced whisky drinkers looking for depth in a widely available whisky.
For Collectors: The evolving bottle design and packaging might interest collectors, especially those focusing on iconic and historically significant distilleries.