It's been a little while since I've had the 12 year version, but the 14 does taste smoother. I wonder if this wouldn't have been better if they did 12 years in original cask + 2 in port, vs 10 in original and 4 in port--the sweetness is a little much for me. BUT, it's very nice. Nose has a lot of maple syrup--so much so that I can't pick up other notes. A bit of spiciness and bite on the finish, which is when you're reminded you're not drinking an actual port! Not sure I'd buy again, but wouldn't turn it down.