The Glenlivet 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

The Glenlivet 12 Year is the original licensed Scotch whisky distillery — granted the first legal licence in the Scottish Highlands in 1824 by founder George Smith, and for decades the only distillery legally entitled to use the name “Glenlivet” on its own. This single malt is where most drinkers encounter the house style for the first time.

Produced in the Livet valley in Speyside from mineral-rich water drawn from Josie's Well on the estate, the 12-year is matured in a combination of American and European oak casks. The American oak delivers the defining vanilla and honey character; the European oak adds restrained dried fruit and a light spice edge. The result is a clean, gentle, and consistently well-made single malt that represents Speyside at its most elegant.

At 40% ABV it is approachable and food-friendly, with enough complexity to reward attention. Browse the full Glenlivet collection at Wooden Cork.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Floral and fragrant — vanilla, white peach, honey, and fresh pineapple with subtle oak underneath
• Palate: Smooth and medium-bodied — vanilla cream, light citrus, warm baking spice, and gentle oak
• Finish: Clean and medium-length with a sweet, slightly floral fade

Specs

• Distillery: The Glenlivet, Ballindalloch, Speyside
• Region: Speyside, Scotland
• Age Statement: 12 Years
• Cask Type: American and European oak
• ABV: 40%
• Size: 750ml

Explore the full Scotch whisky collection at Wooden Cork.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Glenlivet 12 different from other Speyside single malts?

The Glenlivet style is defined by a distinctive floral, fruit-forward nose and a clean, honeyed palate. It is lighter than Macallan and less peaty than any Islay expression — the house style prioritises elegance and fragrance over weight or smoke.

Is The Glenlivet 12 good for cocktails?

It works well in Scotch-based cocktails where the spirit should be present but not dominate — a Rob Roy or a simple highball suit the gentle, floral profile well. It is also very good neat or with a small drop of water to open the nose.