Compared to the Machir Bay which I prefer more, this one on the nose smells like your typical Islay, that familiar hint of the smoke and ash that you anticipate when you take a taste. However the smoke on this one is blunted somewhat, muted strangely by a taste you would get in bourbon. This is one of the few Islay whiskeys I've had that fake you out, you think you're drinking Islay Scotch on the nose, but the taste quickly takes you to a bourbon, strange I know. I like it, I don't regret buying a bottle, but like it enough to buy another bottle? No. If I were to buy another bottle, it be Machir Bay.