Cladach (Special Release 2018) vs Glenfiddich 12 Year Old - Toasted Oak Reserve

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Cladach (Special Release 2018)Glenfiddich 12 Year Old - Toasted Oak Reserve
DistilleryDiageoGlenfiddich
RegionSpeyside
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV57.1%40%
AgeNAS12 yr
Price£149.99£199
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Cladach (Special Release 2018)

Smoke65/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value33/100

Glenfiddich 12 Year Old - Toasted Oak Reserve

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner70/100
Value25/100

Cladach (Special Release 2018)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Glenfiddich 12 Year Old - Toasted Oak Reserve

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Cladach (Special Release 2018) is better value at £150 vs £199.

For beginners: Glenfiddich 12 Year Old - Toasted Oak Reserve is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Cladach (Special Release 2018)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£149.99 vs £199)
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (57.1%) — may need water
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Glenfiddich 12 Year Old - Toasted Oak Reserve

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£199 vs £149.99)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Cladach?

Cladach (Special Release 2018) is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.

Who should buy Glenfiddich?

Glenfiddich 12 Year Old - Toasted Oak Reserve suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.

Tasting notes

Only Cladach (Special Release 2018)

SmokeyKipperyOld WoodLeatheryMossy

Only Glenfiddich 12 Year Old - Toasted Oak Reserve

ToastedVanillaHoneyMalt ExtractNew Wood

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