The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve NOSE: The Rum influence is evident from the start. The normal Heather, Apple and Honey, are joined by Pineapple, Vanilla Bean, Molasses, Butterscotch Discs, and Seabreeze. With time, the Pineapple and Butterscotch become dominant. NEAT: The Rum influence is not as strong on the palate. It dominates the nose, but is more of a supporting player here. It is overall a tick sweeter, than G12, but the usual Apple, Pear, Honey, Smoke, and Leather are first up. There is some Youthful Prickly Heat to remind you that it's NAS. The Rum notes join the backend and finish, leaving a nice layering coating of Oily Molasses, Leather, Oak, and Pineapple. SPLASH: With a few drops of water, both nose and palate become Floral. Almost Perfumed and the Leather on the finish gets turned way up. VERDICT: The original 12yr and I got off to a rough start. I picked up a 50ml sample and wasn't fond of it at all. In fact, in the battle of the Glens, I had the 12 ranked behind Glenfiddich. Then, on a whim, I began ordering it while dining out and began to really appreciate it. In fact, it's earned a spot in my regular rotation. The Caribbean Reserve is equally good. Rum is probably the biggest hole in my Spirits resume as I just can't get into it. I tend to find it "chemically" tasting. Caribbean Reserve hints at that, but it's well balanced by the character of the Speyside Malt. Despite being NAS, this $40 Single Malt is definitely one I can see having a permanent spot in the collection.