I'll give this one the benefit of the doubt. I like this scotch. It's sweet and smooth, yet it lacks the bite that I enjoy from bourbon barrel aging, or whiskies with higher proof. What I really do enjoy about this dram is the slow development of flavor over the course of a few seconds. The flavors don't hit you all at once, starting with soft caramels and developing into rich dark fruits. More smoke than a starter Highland/Speyside, and less than an Islay. I haven't tried any of HP over the 12 year, so I'll leave my mark as is ... for now!