A bit of smoke and a hint of peat, followed by a sense of something missing. Somewhat thin in both body and palate. Finish is short and sweet, leaving a taste of ash in your mouth. For $35, this is a pretty decent bottle of Scotch, with nothing really objectionable and a few strong points. If you're drinking popular blends, I strongly recommend it over the traditional J&B, Dewars White, and it's head and shoulders above Johnnie Walker Red Label. JW Black Label is quite a bit smoother, with more body and overall refinement, but lacks the smoke found in Black Grouse. For the price, it's well worth looking for and picking up.