Imagine if Macallan 18 had a more peaty brother with a little more attitude, a little less education, and a good deal more charm replacing the old-world breeding of ol' Mac. Spicy but crisp and clear, a little bit of honey-dipped apple and a little trace of iodine in the aftertaste, there are definitely flaws here (it doesn't stick with the mouth and the memory as much as it's initial sparkling impression would lead you to believe it will, and the lasting mouthfeel has the slightly medicinal aspect of a much cheaper spirit); but overall, this is an excellent and nearly exceptional whisky (if you overlook a peculiar, metallic aftertaste), a really superb blend of peat, spice, sweet -- all these factors are present, but don't overwhelm -- and a spring-water crispness. In fact, I only rate it so low -- 3.5, instead of the 4 or 4.25 the flavor and experience really merit -- because, frankly, it is considerably overpriced.