Not so strong in the beggining, a bit spicy near the end, something like cinnamon, it hasn't a very prolonged end, specially if you pair it with a cigar. I once did it with a Romeo&Juiliet cigar, they both in the palate do pair nicely, but the cigar taste quickly overwhelms the Macallan's taste. Anyways still a very good whisky, just it doesn't have that more prolonged ending like the more aged Macallans.