The nose is reminiscent of walking into the kitchen when someone is baking pies; I get apple with raisin and mincemeat, with a handful of fall spices...very unique, especially from a standard bearer such as CR. The palate is another surprise, opening soft and fruity, almost like an unpeated Highland, before moving into a very mellow mint that takes you to a slightly woody, astringent finish with just enough alcohol burn to ensure it's not overly sweet. This is good whisky, and well worth seeking out.