@ContemplativeFox thanks so much for the thorough answer! i will certainly try your suggestions and will read all your reviews.

That's a great question @ratbh ! I personally prefer this one because it just has a fuller flavor. While Glenlivet 12 is more subtle, I wouldn't call it complex, so I found it to be inoffensive but bland. I can't say that I like either though. Since you liked the Glenlivet 15, you might enjoy trying the 12 since that is the base of the 15 before they move it to French oak, though I suspect that you will find the tired barrels the 12 uses to be underwhelming (if you don't, that's great though). I agree with you that Glenmorangie The Original is good VFM and I'd say it's a clear step up from Glenlivet 12/Founder's for the same price. For a few bucks more than this, I'd take Loch Lomond 12. If you're willing to try a blend, I hear good things about Compass Box Great King St Artist's Blend for a few bucks more and I enjoyed Monkey Shoulder well enough for a little bit less than this. A more obscure choice that you might enjoy since you liked the Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 is the Glen Moray Port Finish https://distiller.com/spirits/glen-moray-elgin-classic-port-cask-finish. I personally enjoyed its simple sweetness fairly well, though many disagree. To loop back around to your initial question: if you want the authentic Glenlivet experience, I'd recommend the 12, but if you want something with a bit stronger flavor, I'd go for this.

do you like this better than the 12? i cant decide which one to buy.