Speyburn 18 Vs AnCnoc 18: Which is better?

When it comes to Highland single malts, the choices can be as vast as the region itself.

Two standout options that often pique the interest of whisky enthusiasts are Speyburn 18 and AnCnoc 18.

In this comprehensive comparison of Speyburn 18 vs AnCnoc 18, we'll delve into their histories, tasting notes, and overall profiles to determine which one deserves a spot on your top shelf.

TL;DR:

• AnCnoc 18 wins over Speyburn 18 due to its richer complexity and depth from exclusive Sherry cask maturation, offering a robust whisky experience.
• Speyburn 18 provides a lighter, fruitier profile with excellent value, featuring orchard fruits and sweet maltiness at an accessible price point.
• Both whiskies showcase the diversity of Highland single malts, catering to different preferenceslight and fruity versus rich and complex.
• Alternatives to try include GlenDronach 18 Allardice, Clynelish 14, and Aberfeldy 16 for similar high-quality Highland whisky experiences.

A brief history of Speyburn 18 and AnCnoc 18

Speyburn Distillery, founded in 1897, is nestled in the Speyside region, renowned for producing some of Scotland's most celebrated whiskies.

Speyburn 18 is a testament to the distillery's commitment to traditional methods combined with a touch of modern innovation.

On the other hand, AnCnoc (pronounced "a-nock") comes from the Knockdhu Distillery, established in 1894.

Located in the Eastern Highlands, the distillery produces whisky under the brand name AnCnoc to avoid confusion with the nearby Knockando distillery.

AnCnoc 18 is celebrated for its adherence to time-honored production techniques.

Production processes and maturation

Speyburn 18 is matured in a combination of American oak and Spanish oak ex-Sherry casks.

This dual maturation imparts a complex character, blending the sweet notes of bourbon barrels with the rich, fruity nuances of Sherry casks.

AnCnoc 18 is matured exclusively in hand-selected Spanish oak ex-Sherry casks and American oak ex-bourbon barrels.

The whisky is non-chill filtered and bottled at 46% ABV, ensuring that the natural flavors and textures are preserved.

Tasting notes: Speyburn 18

• Appearance: Rich golden amber with shimmering highlights.
• Nose: Aromas of ripe apples, honey, and vanilla, intertwined with hints of citrus zest and oak.
• Palate: A smooth entry leading to flavors of toffee, dried fruits, and a touch of dark chocolate. Subtle spices like cinnamon and nutmeg emerge mid-palate.
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering notes of sweet malt and gentle smoke.

Tasting notes: AnCnoc 18

• Appearance: Deep amber with a copper glow.
• Nose: Rich aromas of Christmas cake, candied orange peel, and heather honey, complemented by a whisper of leather and tobacco.
• Palate: Velvety texture unveiling flavors of spiced apple pie, caramel, and a slight nuttiness. Hints of oak and Sherry richness add depth.
• Finish: Prolonged and satisfying with echoes of dried fruits and a soft, smoky undertone.

Flavor profiles compared

When comparing Speyburn 18 vs AnCnoc 18, both whiskies showcase the quintessential characteristics of Highland single malts but with distinct personalities.

• Speyburn 18 leans towards a lighter, fruitier profile with an emphasis on orchard fruits and sweet maltiness. The influence of American oak brings forward vanilla and honeyed notes.
• AnCnoc 18 offers a richer, more robust experience. The Sherry cask maturation adds layers of dried fruits, spices, and a complexity that appeals to those who appreciate a denser flavor profile.

Price point and value

• Speyburn 18 is often lauded for offering excellent quality at a relatively accessible price point. It provides a luxurious tasting experience without breaking the bank.
• AnCnoc 18, while slightly more expensive, justifies its price with the depth and complexity it delivers. The non-chill filtration and higher ABV contribute to a fuller mouthfeel and intensified flavors.

The verdict: Which whisky comes out on top?

In the head-to-head of Speyburn 18 vs AnCnoc 18, the winner depends largely on personal preference.

However, if we must declare a victor, AnCnoc 18 edges ahead due to its richer complexity and the depth brought by its exclusive Sherry cask maturation.

Its non-chill filtered presentation and higher alcohol content provide a more authentic and robust whisky experience.

Three alternatives to explore

If you've enjoyed learning about Speyburn 18 and AnCnoc 18, here are three other Highland single malts that might pique your interest:

1. GlenDronach 18 Allardice: Renowned for its deep Sherry influence, this whisky offers rich notes of dark chocolate, cherries, and walnuts.

2. Clynelish 14: A coastal Highland malt with a unique waxy texture, featuring flavors of citrus, sea salt, and subtle peat smoke.

3. Aberfeldy 16: Matured in a combination of bourbon and Sherry casks, it presents honeyed sweetness, creamy vanilla, and soft spice notes.

Choosing between Speyburn 18 vs AnCnoc 18 is a delightful dilemma for any whisky lover.

Both offer exceptional quality and showcase the diversity within Highland single malts.

Whether you prefer the lighter, fruitier notes of Speyburn 18 or the rich, complex character of AnCnoc 18, you're in for a memorable tasting experience.

Don't hesitate to explore the suggested alternatives to further expand your whisky horizons.