Well I loved the LL 12 year and saw this for $24 so scooped it. Poured neat, the nose, palate and finish are all reminiscent of the 12 yr but dialed back. The flavors aren't as defined and don't have the vibrancy or depth of the age statement release. That said this is still solid scotch. It has the lovely fruit, smoke/peat and wood notes all for a budget price. This and Speyburn Bradan Orach are my top value scotches. Think of this as Highland Park 12 on the cheap as it has a similar profile. ........78/100......easy repurchase for low cost single malt (though the superior 12 year can be had for about $10 more )