Dark honey colored, medium bodied. mouthfeel: like chocolate melting in your mouth. Nose: raisins, dates, honey, orange peel, a faint hint of smoke - like after the campfire has been out for a bit. After some time, some molasses, nutty sweetness, and faint sea salt caramel join the aroma. Everything blends together delightfully and smoothly. Really complex while maintaining a cohesive scent. Palate: oranges, molasses, and caramel at the front. The middle develops more sea salt and mild smokiness, along with some brighter citrus flavor. The finish is smooth, mild, and medium length. It’s tasty and complex, but not overwhelming. There’s a big burst of sweet fruit and then a lingering smoke mixed with some dates and honey. Really interesting. I think the Oban DE may still be my favorite Oban expression, but the 18 year is an excellent dram and I’m glad to have it on my shelf. I’ll have to revisit this one down the line, and next time I’ll taste the other Oban’s after the 18 and see how they all line up for me.