Nose: Similar to the 10 year but dialed up a bunch due to the abv. A bit more brine presents as well. Palate: Peat smoke hits hard right away followed by layers of orchard fruits, honey, vanilla and salt. Drinks super smooth for the proof. Oily and viscous. Long smokey Laphroaig finish. For $90 this is a great buy, haven't had the CS to compare. Alot better than the standard 10 to me 9/10