From a freshly opened bottle, the rum finish looms large. Thankfully, some air causes the rum notes to dissipate some. Still, on the nose I get overripe banana, pineapple, charred lemon, vanilla, salty brine. No real evidence of the high proof on the nose. The palate continues with brine, smoked bacon, banana, pineapple, chili pepper. Slight burn, but drinks lower than its proof. No water needed, but a few drops doesn't hurt either. Straight from a new bottle, I thought the finish was overbearing, but given some time to breathe it's quite a lovely dram. I really enjoy the 2021 8 year old, but think I may prefer this one slightly. When it settles down, the rum finish is interesting and enjoyable layered over the top of the already wonderful sweet, smoky, briny Talisker malt. Well worth the 50 pounds plus shipping from Whisky International.