Granny smith apples still on the tree. A wisp of velvety cream then smoke. Some fine wood rounding it but never making itself unwelcome. Very, very nicely composed so its already a little Japanese that way. The casking is partial (bottle says 'some') so the full effect is hard to discern but you do notice the wood had more going for it than European or american by itself flavor-wise. Really makes me want to try a finish with more Mizu because again: the wood tastes great. Nose is butterscotch and vanilla for me. In the middle I'd maybe add the malt and grain whisky usage gives suuuuuch a luxurious cream/rich/malt it would be a shame to not enjoy this one neat. The finish is really smooth. I think Chivas could've given us a little more than 40%, but oh well. It wouldve gone to 4.0 or 4.25 easily with some more punch. The wife picked this out for my birthday as a surprise. Wife knows best ;)