I'm thinking more of a 3.5 for this one, but I can't do that so it's getting a 4! The reason why I rate this higher is because I think its a really good entry into Islay for somebody who isn't a huge scotch/Islay drinker. You know how you have to work people up to the heavy smoky phenolic stuff? I think you can easily thrust some Bowmore 12 year into somebody's hand and they'll find it enjoyable. You're getting some classic peat smoke (not too much), zesty lemon, and sweet vanilla. The finish I find kinda strange and swift...burnt casks and charred vegetables? I'm not sure how I feel about it. I'll have to re-evaluate as my bottle depletes over time!