Rich and complex, there is mild caramels, cereal and oaks dancing around that are overtaken quickly by plums, black pepper, anise and intense earthy peat. There is a slight dash of honey sweetness but takes alot to get it. the finish is long and full of smoke, brine, peat and pepper. Askaig seems to be a hit with all my ardbeg fans as the notes are usually similar especially the way the peat comes through. for 70 bucks its a great dram.