Nose: There's a very unique aroma. Not sure if it's pleasant or unpleasant. I get almost a grape-like note but not overly sweet. Reminds me for some reason of a grappa from grape stems and skins. I get a little vanilla and some subtle maple too. Palate: This is much more appealing than the nose. Initially quite mellow and heavy on the vanilla notes. Then some gentle pepper and cinnamon emerge but are not overpowering. The maltiness from the 49% malted barley is apparent here giving some notes of fresh cut grass and dried apricots. Finish: Medium. The black pepper sticks around and there is some chewy leather notes. Overall this is an interesting whisky. Pretty decent for the price and happy to have grabbed a bottle.