First, there come red grapes and raw nuts on the nose. After that you can feel the strong character from the American barrels - mostly vanilla and a touch of honey. The pitiful moment comes on the palate where everything dissappears quickly and the very short finish is with oaky spices and little sweet dried fruits. It could be said that this is the basis for The Balvenie nowadays - especially for what you feel on the nose. I expected more on the palate and longer finish though.