Glenfiddich 18 Review: A Single Malt Scotch Whisky That Delights the Senses

First released in 1997, the Glenfiddich 18 was created by master distiller David Stuart with the aim of producing a whisky that surpassed Glenfiddich's other expressions in complexity and nuances by aging the whisky in Solero Vats and finishing them in Sherry casks. This created one of the best single malts that whisky lovers around the world have come to enjoy today.

Founded in 1886, the Glenfiddich Distillery sits in the valley of the Fiddich River, in Speyside, Scotland. The Iconic Stag logo, designed by Hans Schleger was a nod to the Scottish Gaelic name of "Gleann Fhiodhaich," which meant "Valley of the deer," as he drew inspiration for the logo from the red deer, which naturally populate the Scottish highlands.

Coincidently, the first batches of Glenfiddich ran from the stills on Christmas in 1887, as if the deer from the valley themselves had been tasked to deliver this wonderful spirit to consumers!

Glenfiddich 18-Year Single Malt Buy Now

Key Features

• Classification: Single malt Scotch whisky
• Location: Speyside, Scotland
• Age: 18 years
• Mash bill: 100% malted barley
• Cask: Combination of Oloroso sherry from Jerez and ex-bourbon American oak casks
• ABV: 40%

The Process of Creation

Like all whiskies, the Glenfiddich 18 follows a similar process of malting, mashing, fermenting, distilling, and then maturing. One of the unique elements in the creation of Glenfiddich whisky is the use of swan-necked copper stills, which are handmade and maintained on-site by a team of engineers and coppersmiths. These stills are smaller than the ones commonly used nowadays in major distilleries and have longer lyne arms thanks to the swan neck design, which means more contact with copper in the distillation process in every batch of Glenfiddich that is produced, creating a purer spirit without lost flavour.

Combined with an aging process in bourbon and sherry casks, no efforts are spared in the production of the Glenfiddich 18, and the result is a smooth, exquisitely balanced whisky that oozes elegance.

The Eye, Nose, and Palate

The Appearance

Like many whiskies aged for 18 years, the Glenfiddich 18 has a deep amber colour that coats the glass when swirled, though this variety is brighter and more golden than many of its competitors.

The Nose

On first inspection, the Glenfiddich 18 offers subtle hits of grain, cinnamon, and honey that quickly give way to a more complex set of aromas that resemble the oak casks alongside spicy vanilla and nutmeg, with subtle fruity notes underneath.

The Palate

This whisky is medium-bodied, not too oily or heavy on the tongue, and offers a first taste impression of a deep and complex fruitcake made with plum and raisins, while hints of orange, vanilla, and the bite of spice and espresso come alive as the spirit warms.

The Finish

The finish is long and smooth, with a warming aftertaste that lingers on the tongue with dark chocolate, together with nutty flavours like pecan and hazelnut.

The Pricing

Glenfiddich 18 is available at ~$135.95 from our store and has a special price of ~$131.95 if you are a member.

Glenfiddich 18 year Single Malt

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Final Verdict: Is Glenfiddich 18 Worth the Money?

While the price tag may seem daunting to some people, you can rest assured that if you have the money to spare, you won't be disappointed with this purchase. The complex flavours and many pairing options make the Glenfiddich 18 year whisky a great choice for all drinkers.

Glenfiddich 18 Year FAQs

Is Glenfiddich 18 good for beginners?

The nuances of the flavours inherited from the distinct aging process can be challenging to pick up on and make it an interesting experience for beginners or a delightful one for a seasoned dramster.

What foods pair well with Glenfiddich 18?

Being an unpeated whisky, the Glenfiddich 18 is nimble on the food pairing chart The combination of fruits and spices give it unlimited pairing delights on a charcuterie board, while the gentle sweetness from the bourbon casks makes it a joy to pair with dark chocolate or other desserts.

What is the Glenfiddich 18 rating?

Holding an average score of 83.11 across different tasting boards, it is quite safe to say Glenfiddich 18 is an amazing single malt that has a consumer-friendly price tag by comparison to other whiskies of a similar caliber.