Sweet plum, berries, caramel from start to finish. Medium finish and strength is perfect for a 46% ABV. Rounded and viscous upon entry that lasts and remains after the initial burst that follows entry. Earthy, sherried nose with cherry aromas that match the taste. A pure, unadulterated scotch. This is a magnificent whisky and astonishingly enhanced at the price point. Using this rating system, anything less than four stars is delusional and misappropriation. These do not know their whiskeys. This is easily a 90/100 on traditional scales, and worth the 96 at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. High expectations before trying due to virtual and actual recommendations, and this did not disappoint. Out of this price range, I would not want to buy it simply because I would be frustrated that such an opportunity became less of one. Not a hint of brine or bitterness, or anything synthetic or medicinal. This is borderline angel’s share. Satin sherry, silky wine comes through. I have an affinity for a port or any wine finish or maturation for my hooch. This is a pleasant dram trifecta—sherry, red wine and bourbon matured—for me. However, one letter “e” keeps this from being my dream dram. The “e” is for ethereal. Of everything this spirit is, what it is not is dreamy. A dream spirit must simply be just that. This spirit does entice and create desire with its touch of toffee. A tour de force of a Highland.