i always think it is important to rank like against like. to my mind, there is little point in searching for tasting experiences in ballentine's finest. it is an introductory level blend, and it does this job very well. affordable and good in a mixed drink when you're not trying to be fancy as all get out. and i'm not dismissive of blends - some of my most wonderful whisky experiences have been had with masterful blends, both neat and mixed. but this is just a solid little operator; a good bottle to put at the front of your cabinet in case some guest with almost no whisky knowledge should arrive with a bottle of cola before you get there. it's not a degustation menu worth discussion - its a solid asian noodle house and i go there often.