Initial aroma is loaded with vanilla and caramel. Very faint whisper of smoke. A touch of water opens that up, but ice dulls it. Tasted neat, it is very well balanced. Light in body, and a very smooth, creamy finish. Adding water doesn't change it much, but one square of ice highlighted the smoke and brine. The smoke builds as I get closer to the end of the glass, but never gets intense. Nice easy drinking whisky.