Edit: update at bottom Tried neat and then with rocks. Nose: Brown sugar, citrus zest. Faint mineral spring at end. Not terribly complicated but dont let that subtract. Palate: It's like someone took the interesting parts out of HP12. Vanilla, marmalade -> cereal highland signature, strong spice to finish. Stronger than expected spice for how unassuming it is all the way to this point. The smoke is faint after it gets in your mouth a decent bit but some of it is nice to taste initially--this one is kinda boring. Finish: Hot but not in a cheap liquor or ethanol tasting way. Short, short, short. Spice kinda gives a little kick of heather and cinnamon. Forgettable if you've had enough better stuff from the category but I wouldnt ever dare snub a dram or three. Bought on a whim for $29.99 while looking around the store with the wife. I had read and heard it was okay but drinkable; I'd personally state it as "bland and boring". It isnt deserving of much praise or criticism. Spend the extra $8-14 on 12 year. 82/100. Edit 83.5 or 84 after it had a few drams poured the bottle sat and the profile was nicely changed. Smoke was easier to enjoy throughout--less sticky sweet in the way of smoke. Me and the wife smelled and tasted rich butter/biscuit whereas before it wasnt pronounced anywhere except a quick kiss in the spice.