This whisky is worth both the cost and difficulty I had finding it. It is overall very smooth, with a nice sweetness, and a good, deep flavor. The classic sweet notes I've found in many Japanese whiskies are there from the nose. I definitely get honey, vanilla, and even a bit of butter that is distinct from other whiskies that I've tried. A little bit of fruit flavor comes through on the palate to compliment those sweet notes, and the finish is smooth, and deep with a little smoky flavor akin to some of my favorite scotches. Yamazaki 12 is pricey, and I had a tough time finding it, but if you can get your hands on a bottle, it is definitely worth it.