This was my 2nd whiskey I ever had ( first being a Glenlivet 12). I don't think I was really appreciative of Islay flavors and complexity then. I remember the briny, pine needle taste and the waft of sea on the nose. At the time, I hated it... And ended up giving this bottle away, not being able to take the taste anymore. Now...2 years later and after totally loving Talisker, Bowmore, and other Islays and Islands, I probably wouldn't have given this away.