In the first piece of STYLE ’s new Whisky Debates column we'll be comparing the two bestselling single malt Scotch whisky brands and their entry-level expressions. While there are many other great entry-level whiskies, focusing on two of the most widely distributed and recognised brands is the best place to start: the Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old and the Glenfiddich 12 Year Old. Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old – US$60 The Macallan brand is the most collectable and high-end brand in the world of Scotch. The Macallan 1926 sold at auction just two months ago for US$1.9 million and shattered the world record for most expensive whisky bottle ever sold. As the premium range is so sought-after and rare this has driven up the price for the core range, making the Double Cask quite pricey compared to other bottles of the same age and availability. The term double cask describes the whisky's maturation in both sherry and American oak casks. Sadly, many of the recent, more affordable Macallan releases have been hit and miss. The Macallan Edition No. 4 for example, is an amazingly balanced dram, while the new Edition No. 5 is quite underwhelming. Where to buy the rarest whiskies off the rack in Hong Kong The Double Cask brings sherry notes forth, with dried fruits and trail mix. The palate brings spice, a little too much oak and a touch of chocolate. For an entry-level whisky, the palate is quite intense and the oak notes are slightly overwhelming. Glenfiddich 12 Year Old – US$S35 Glenfiddich remains the bestselling single malt Scotch whisky bottle in the world. While the Macallan soars in collectability, Glenfiddich sells in higher numbers. At around US$35 per bottle, this 12-year age statement whisky is a bargain. The Glenfiddich can be found in almost every corner of the world, and easily, which removes the need to hunt for the dram. This is good for beginners as Glenfiddich 12-year-old will be on the shelf at most bars across the globe. Starting off the Glenfiddich brings aromas of summer fruit and caramel. The palate is soft and smooth, with some cinnamon and other winter spice alongside the caramel, butterscotch sweetness. Why whisky maker Glenfiddich experimented with champagne casks The verdict: The Glenfiddich 12 outshines the Macallan 12 Double Cask. Firstly, the price almost allows one to buy two bottles of the Glenfiddich for the price of one Macallan. Simply because of the brand's high price tags at auction and luxury image, the Macallan charges a little too much for their normal 12YO expression. Secondly, the taste. Palates differ, but a beginner looking at an entry level single malt is likely to find it easier to enjoy the Glenfiddich due to the softer, smoother character of the whisky, and the subtle sweetness and fruity notes. The Macallan's intense oak notes and spice can overwhelm complete beginners. Both are great whiskies, but as an entry level whisky, between two of the world's bestselling single malts, we put the Glenfiddich in first place. Want more stories like this? Sign up here . Follow STYLEnon Facebook , Instagram , YouTube and Twitter .
