Bottle: 43% ABV, chill-filtered, no color, 750mL. Purchased on 5/10/17 for $47. This is the "introductory scotch." Glenlivet 12 and Glenfiddich 12 do not count; they are for people who want to "sip", not for those who want to taste. HP 12 offers surprising complexity; its flavors tell a tale with a distinct beginning, middle, and end. Nose: a sherry sweet; as you explore, vanilla and heather. I do not get smoke. Palate: the arrival is sherry-dominated; there is a transition into citrus and various spices; as you hold the liquid in the mouth, a bourbon character takes over, and you get vanilla and toffee. Finish: oak and fruits on the finish that turns a little bitter. You can avoid this bitterness by getting HP 18, or tasting quicker :). Water: For me, water tends to make things sweeter, and it's the same result for HP 12; that sweet sherry flavor is more dominant with a few drops of water added. As a tangent, I do not get fancy restaurants offering wine pairings. If your food is amazing, let me enjoy it with water. And, I hope I don't offend any wine connoiseurs, but if wine is that good, why not just drink it with some water on the side? HP 12 is amazing, affordable whisky. Drink it by itself. 86/100.