Glenmorangie vs Glenlivet | A comparison of two legendary whisky producers

Glenmorangie and Glenlivet are two of the most iconic whisky producers in the world, with a long history of producing high-quality spirits. Both distilleries have become synonymous with quality, craftsmanship and innovation over the years.

Recently, Glenmorangie and Glenlivet have both undergone a revamp in terms of design. Glenmorangie has recently released a new range of bottles which have a more contemporary look and feel to them, with bold colours and sleek labels. Glenlivet, meanwhile, has launched its ‘The Glenlivet Code’ range – repackaging base expressions such as Glenlivet 12 into unique bottles that are inspired by the brand’s iconic codes and ciphers. Both brands are embracing modernity while still proudly keeping their traditional roots alive through their unique packaging design.

In this article, we’ll be comparing:

Glenmorangie 10 and Glenlivet 12

Glenmorangie 14 and Glenlivet 15

Glenmorangie 18 and Glenlivet 18

We’ll be looking at each whisky’s flavour profile, smell and finish so you can make an informed decision when it comes to Glenmorangie vs Glenlivet. So let’s get started!

Glenmorangie vs Glenlivet: Overall Winner

Glenmorangie vs Glenlivet: The 10 vs 12

Flavour Comparison

The Glenmorangie 10 whisky is a complex and delightful dram, with a nose of tart lemon, juicy nectarine, crisp apple, and subtle spice. The addition of first-and-second-fill American white oak casks gives Glenmorangie 10 its unique character. The whisky has a luxuriously soft mouthfeel that is clean and refreshing, finishing with a subtly sweet flavour that is incredibly smooth. Glenmorangie 10 is bottled at 80 proof / 40%ABV for an intense flavour experience.

On the other hand, Glenlivet 12 has a wonderfully fragrant nose of apricot, pineapple, greengages and citrus blossom. This whisky is then aged for 12 years in European and American oak barrels which impart it with rich oaky flavours and its velvety texture. On the palate Glenlivet 12 delivers a complex blend of juicy fruit notes with hints of vanilla intertwined throughout. Its finish is an intriguing mix of toasty oak, malt, and sweet-tart red apple that tantalise the senses. Glenlivet 12 is also bottled at 80 proof / 40%ABV for a balanced yet powerful flavour profile.

Overall Glenmorangie 10 offers an intense aroma and bold flavours while Glenlivet 12 delivers a wonderfully fragrant nose with additional oaky notes on the palate. Both whiskies are excellent choices for those who appreciate complexity in their drams but Glenmorangie 10 may be preferred by those looking for more intense flavours due to its higher ABV strength as well as its unique character imparted by the combination of American white oak casks used in its maturation process.

Price

Both Glenmorangie 10 and Glenlivet 12 are excellent value whiskies, with both being available for under £40. Glenmorangie’s unique combination of first-and-second-fill American white oak casks give it an intense flavour profile that is sure to impress even the most discerning whisky connoisseur. Its maturation process also adds to its complexity, resulting in a luxuriously soft mouthfeel, clean finish, and subtle fruity notes that are incredibly smooth.

Glenlivet 12 also provides tremendous value for its price range, offering an alluring nose of apricot, pineapple, greengages and citrus blossom complemented by a velvety texture on the palate. The whisky is aged for 12 years in European and American oak barrels which impart it with signature oaky flavours. At the end of its journey, Glenlivet 12 leaves you with a tantalising mix of toasty oak, malt, sweet-tart red apple, and hints of vanilla that linger on your tongue long after every sip.

Whether you’re looking for intensity or complexity these two whiskies have something special to offer in their own right. If you’re looking for fine-quality whisky at an affordable price then Glenmorangie 10 or Glenlivet 12 are both outstanding choices.

Our pick

The Glenmorangie 10 year old whisky is a unique and exceptional choice for those looking for an intense, yet complex flavour profile. Its maturation process involves first-and-second-fill American white oak casks which adds to its complexity, resulting in a luxuriously soft mouthfeel, clean finish, and subtle fruity notes that are incredibly smooth.

In comparison, Glenlivet 12 offers a wonderfully fragrant nose of apricot, pineapple, greengages and citrus blossom with complementary oaky flavours on the palate. While Glenlivet 12 is an excellent choice for those who appreciate complexity in their drams, Glenmorangie 10 offers a higher ABV strength along with intense flavour notes that are sure to tantalise your taste buds.

Moreover, Glenmorangie 10 is an incredible value for its price range, offering an unforgettable whisky experience at just under £40. With all these factors combined it’s easy to see why Glenmorangie 10 would be the preferred choice over Glenlivet 12 when it comes to selecting your next favourite whisky!

Glenmorangie vs Glenlivet: The 14 year old vs The 15

Flavour comparison

Glenmorangie 14 and Glenlivet 15 are two highly regarded whisky producers, each boasting long-standing reputations as iconic producers of premium Scotch. Glenmorangie’s 14 year old expression is matured in ex-bourbon casks with further maturation in ruby port casks, resulting in an intense yet complex flavour profile with notes of summer fruit tart, cedar wood, coffee, almond pastries and chocolate mousse. Glenlivet’s 15 year old meanwhile is matured in French Limousin oak casks that are popularly used for the aging of Cognac and provides a rich oaky nose with notes of chewy resinous wood balanced by a well-balanced acidity. On the palate there is winter spice along with thick oak developing aridity and on the finish a peppery note lingers on the tongue.

In terms of alcohol content Glenmorangie offers a higher ABV strength at 46% compared to Glenlivet’s 40%. The higher ABV gives Glenmorangie more intensity while Glenlivet’s lower proof results in a smoother mouthfeel that won’t overwhelm your taste buds. In terms of price range, Glenmorangie 14 year old is relatively more expensive than its Glenlivet counterpart at £56.95$69.60 compared to £48.50$59 respectively. Those who are looking for complexity without sacrificing subtlety may prefer Glenlivet 15 for its smooth mouthfeel and delicate flavours while those seeking an intense whisky experience should look no further than Glenmorangie 14 year old with its classic rich flavours and robust ABV strength.

Our pick

When selecting my favourite, I find myself reaching for Glenlivet’s 15-year-old expression. Not only does this whisky boast a long-standing reputation as an iconic producer of premium Scotch, but its rich and oaked nose with notes of chewy resinous wood balanced by a well-balanced acidity is sure to impress even the most seasoned connoisseurs. Furthermore, Glenlivet’s 15 year old has been matured in French Limousin oak casks adding a depth of flavour that is simply unparalleled.

On the palate Glenlivet 15 reveals winter spice along with thick oak developing aridity while on the finish a peppery note leaves a lasting impression on my tongue. The 40% ABV keeps Glenlivet’s 15 year old at the perfect strength, providing enough intensity without overwhelming my taste buds and allowing me to appreciate its subtle yet complex flavours to their fullest extent. Glenlivet’s 15 year old is also an incredible deal compared to Glenmorangie’s 14 year old, coming in at £48.50$59 compared to £56.95$69.60 respectively – making it an excellent choice for those looking for value without sacrificing quality or flavour complexity!

Overall I find Glenlivet’s 15 year old expression perfectly suited for my tastes; its spicier notes and smooth mouthfeel make it an ideal sipping whisky for any occasion and one that I would highly recommend to all whisky enthusiasts!

Glenmorangie vs Glenlivet: The 18 year olds

Flavour comparison

The Glenmorangie 18 offers a complex, robust flavour profile that can be described as both tart and sweet. On the nose, Glenmorangie reveals citrusy and tart tones, complemented by the sweetness of cinnamon, stewed fruits, and caramel-topped pannacotta. On the palate, Glenmorangie offers aromas of juicy nectarines drenched in yoghurt, succulent peaches bathed in cream and a hint of butterscotch for an indulgent tropical experience. This whisky has then been finished off with a round and silky mouthfeel before finishing with notes of tart oak and toasted grapefruit radiating with a glistening layer of caramelized brown sugar.

Meanwhile Glenlivet’s 18 year old expression brings forth an equally inviting flavour profile that is equally as unique. On the nose Glenlivet reveals sweet sultanas, Sherried peels, barley sugars, toasty cereals and floral petals along with a hint of apple blossom; all further complemented by subtle notes of fudge coupled with delicate wisps of smoke! On the palate Glenlivet offers Manuka honey, walnut, Cox’s apples and orange peels; all rounded off with fragrant notes of spicy oak on the lingering finish. The Glenlivet 18 also boasts a luxuriously creamy texture that makes it ideal for sipping.

Ultimately both Glenmorangie 18 and Glenlivet 18 offer exceptional quality Scotch whiskies at reasonable prices that are sure to please any whisky connoisseur!

Price

The Glenmorangie 18 Year Old and Glenlivet 18 Year Old expressions both come with a price tag that is on par with each other. Glenmorangie’s 18 year old expression comes in at £111.95$136.85 while Glenlivet’s 18 year old expression costs £104.99$128, making them both highly affordable options for whisky connoisseurs.

Both Glenmorangie 18 Year Old and Glenlivet 18 Year Old expressions come with a price tag that is on par with each other – making them both highly affordable options for whisky connoisseurs looking to invest in something more than just your average bottle. Although they may feel like more of an indulgence or birthday present than an every day purchase – these bottles are sure to provide any whisky lover with memories to last a lifetime thanks to their unique flavours!

Our pick

For those who have read my other article Glenmorangie vs Glenfiddich will know I recently purchased Glenmorangie 18 year old for my Father’s 60th Birthday. Therefore I must admit I’m slightly biased towards this whisky as I really do love it. It was the perfect choice. Glenmorangie is well known for its luxurious flavour profile and complex palate, and I knew this whisky would not disappoint! Its complex, robust flavour profile can be described as both tart and sweet.

Glenmoranganie’s more robust finish would make it great in cocktails or simply enjoyed neat or over ice.

I highly recommend Glenmorangie’s 18 year old expression for whisky connoisseurs who are looking for something special. This expression makes for an indulgent experience that will not soon be forgotten!

Glenmorangie’s 18 year old expression isn’t just a treat for your taste buds – it also comes at an approachable price, making it a perfect choice for whisky aficionados wanting to invest in something above and beyond the ordinary.

Glenmorangie vs Glenlivet: Overall Winner