to me it smells like being near a pool or a hot-tub, but for anyone that HASN'T tried it, DON'T think it's a BAD thing... gives me an instant positive memory. Puts me in that zone. Smells kinda bourboney as well, sweet, especially after airing out in a rocks glass neat. Very smokey, very tasty for being cask strength. While not my favorite Glenlivet in particular, definitely a damn good scotch.