Glenfiddich 12 years old Special Reserve Single Highland Malt Scotch Whisky 35 cl 40%

There was a time when Glenfiddich called itself a Highland Malt rather than a Speyside. Special Reserve is a reminder that the map has been redrawn since then.

Expert description

Glenfiddich 12 Years Old Special Reserve is a Single Speyside Malt Scotch Whisky matured in american ex-bourbon casks and European sherry casks and bottled at 40%. The whisky is an older label edition of Glenfiddich's classic 12 Years Old, from a time when the Speyside region was often described as part of the wider Highland area on bottle labels. It is matured in American ex-bourbon casks and European sherry casks, bottled in the smaller 35cl format.

Tasting notes

Nose

Fresh pears, delicate florals and a touch of oak.

Palate

Light and soft, with pear and malt sweetness carried by mild spice.

Finish

Short to medium, clean and refreshing.

Specifications

Name: Glenfiddich 12 Years Old Special Reserve Single Speyside Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillery: Glenfiddich
Region/Country: Speyside, Scotland
Type: Single Speyside Malt Scotch Whisky
Age: 12 years old
ABV: 40%
Size: 35 CL
Cask type: American ex-bourbon casks and European sherry casks
Edition: Special Reserve - older label edition, 'Highland Malt'
EAN no.: 5010327307244

Flavour profile

Classic · Fresh · Pear-sweet · Soft

Did you know?

Speyside was only officially recognised as its own whisky region, separate from the Highlands, relatively late in whisky history, which explains why older labels used the term 'Highland Malt'.

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Frequently asked questions about Glenfiddich 12 Years Old Special Reserve Single Speyside Malt Scotch Whisky

Why does this older Glenfiddich label say 'Highland Malt'?

Because the Speyside region used to be described as part of the wider Highland area, before Speyside was recognised as its own distinct whisky region.

Is Special Reserve the same whisky as today's Glenfiddich 12 Years Old?

It is based on the same fundamental combination of ex-bourbon and sherry casks, but comes from an older label edition and a smaller 35cl format.

Why is this bottle only 35cl?

It was a common smaller format in earlier years, which is less widespread in Glenfiddich's range today.

Is Special Reserve worth collecting for someone interested in older labels?

Yes, the older 'Highland Malt' term makes it interesting for collectors who focus on Glenfiddich's label history.

Is Glenfiddich Special Reserve a peated whisky?

No, it is not peated. The character is fresh and pear-driven, like the rest of the 12 Years Old range.

Does Special Reserve make a good gift for a whisky collector?

Yes, particularly for someone interested in Glenfiddich's history and older bottle design.