Buchanan's 12 and Buchanan's Master are both blended Scotch whiskies from the Buchanan's brand range. While they share some similarities, there are distinct differences between the two expressions.
1. Maturation: One key difference between Buchanan's 12 and Buchanan's Master lies in their maturation period. Buchanan's 12 is aged for a minimum of 12 years, whereas Buchanan's Master is a blend of malts from all of Scotland's main whisky regions, and the age of the whiskies used may vary. This means that while Buchanan's 12 has a specific age statement, Buchanan's Master does not, allowing for a greater range of flavors and profiles.
2. Flavor Profile: Buchanan's 12 is known for its light and approachable flavor profile. It has a sweet cereal core with hints of citrus, making it a smooth and easy-drinking whisky. On the other hand, Buchanan's Master offers a more complex and robust flavor experience. By blending malts from different regions, it combines a wider range of flavors, including smoky, fruity, and spicy notes. The Master expression is often regarded as a richer and more layered whisky compared to the 12-year-old.
3. Blend Composition: Buchanan's 12 is crafted using a specific selection of single malt and grain whiskies, carefully blended to achieve its desired flavor profile. In contrast, Buchanan's Master is a blend of malts from all of Scotland's main whisky regions, which includes Highland, Lowland, Speyside, and Islay. This diversity in the blend composition allows for a more intricate and balanced flavor profile in Buchanan's Master.
4. Age Statement: As mentioned earlier, Buchanan's 12 carries an age statement of 12 years, indicating that all the whiskies used in the blend have been aged for at least this duration. This age statement is important for whisky enthusiasts who prefer a specific maturity level in their drams. On the other hand, Buchanan's Master does not have a specific age statement, as it is a blend of whiskies of varying ages. This allows for greater flexibility in the flavor profile and character of the Master expression.
5. Price: Price can also be a differentiating factor between the two expressions. Generally, Buchanan's 12 is priced lower than Buchanan's Master, reflecting the difference in their age statements and complexity of flavors. However, it is worth noting that the price may vary depending on the region and availability.
The main differences between Buchanan's 12 and Buchanan's Master lie in their maturation period, flavor profile, blend composition, age statement, and price. Buchanan's 12 offers a light and smooth drinking experience with a specific age statement, while Buchanan's Master provides a more complex and varied flavor profile through its blend of malts from different regions. Both expressions cater to different preferences and occasions, allowing whisky enthusiasts to explore and enjoy the diverse offerings from the Buchanan's brand range.