Smoke, smoke and MORE SMOKE! Smoky nose, smoky initial palate, and smoky finish, both of typical peat smoke and of thick barrel char. That said, underneath the smoke you'll find the typical Johnnie Walker blend of warm cereal, floral notes, and pleasant sweetness. This doesn't have the medicinal taste associated with Islay Single Malts, even though it matches them in sheer smokiness. Definitely an interesting blend, certainly not one for beginners.