As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and appreciate various whiskies, including Glenmorangie and Glenlivet. The question of whether one is better than the other is subjective and ultimately depends on personal preference. However, I can provide you with some insights into the characteristics that differentiate these two whiskies.
Flavor Profile: Both Glenmorangie and Glenlivet are known for their smooth and approachable flavor profiles. Glenmorangie often exhibits notes of citrus, vanilla, and floral undertones, while Glenlivet leans towards fruity and nutty flavors with hints of caramel and spice. The choice between the two may depend on whether you prefer a more citrusy and floral profile or a fruitier and nuttier one.
Stills and Washbacks: One notable difference between Glenmorangie and Glenlivet lies in their stills and washbacks, which play a crucial role in the whisky-making process. Glenmorangie boasts the tallest stills in Scotland, which are known to produce a light and delicate spirit. The narrow shape of these stills, combined with wide “boiling balls,” allows for maximum copper contact, resulting in a clean and refined spirit. On the other hand, Glenlivet's stills are broader and feature “pinched waists,” which can influence the character of the spirit, potentially yielding a slightly fuller-bodied whisky.
Age Statements and Maturation: Both Glenmorangie and Glenlivet offer a range of expressions with various age statements and maturation techniques. Glenmorangie is renowned for its extensive use of different cask finishes, such as port, sherry, and Sauternes, which add layers of complexity to their whiskies. Glenlivet, on the other hand, often focuses on the use of ex-bourbon casks, allowing the natural flavors of the whisky to shine through. The choice between the two may depend on whether you prefer the influence of different cask finishes or a more straightforward maturation process.
Personal Experience: Personally, I have enjoyed both Glenmorangie and Glenlivet whiskies for different occasions and moods. I find Glenmorangie's citrusy and floral notes to be refreshing and perfect for sipping on a summer evening, while Glenlivet's fruitier and nuttier flavors make for a cozy winter companion. Ultimately, the choice between the two whiskies boils down to individual preferences and the specific characteristics you seek in a dram.
Whether Glenmorangie is better than Glenlivet is subjective and dependent on personal taste. Both distilleries offer exceptional whiskies with distinct flavor profiles, influenced by their stills, washbacks, maturation techniques, and cask choices. Exploring and trying whiskies from both Glenmorangie and Glenlivet can be a delightful journey of discovery, allowing you to uncover your own preferences and favorites.