Islay was NOT my style, BUT. I had to try this given the reviews and bold and umami pungent flavors well-presented alongside the peat... and being able to pick up a bottle for only $41+tax. Nose: Cyprian latakia, bandages with ointment, the sea on an overcast October evening. Taste: No bandages, but all of that oriental tobacco, woody, but more than just pine or oak with an extra dimension. Behind the moderate veil of smoke lies salty seaweed, lilac, and heather, with a twinge of lavender and only just-ripe green pears, bittersweet and earthy, making this so surprisingly deep and flavorful for a moderately-priced 10yr peated scotch. Finish: long and fine, with no undue warmth of solventy notes returning, the tastes initially perceived fade and blend to create a dry, earthy, robust.... and... dare I say "manly" finish that practically begs for a deep bowl of mature pipe tobacco from such a master blender of English and Oriental blends and cakes as G.L. Pease. 4.5/5