It has smoke, but it's not overwhelming. The flavor develops throughout the drink, bringing in prunes, raisins, wood, caramel, cream. It's smooth, rich, and superbly balanced. It covers the whole spectrum and is a delight to drink. It's definitely fruity, but the smoke quickly balances that flavor before giving way to brine. The price is high, but it is hard to argue that this scotch is not complex and we'll balanced. Amazing. This is like if someone took Oban 14 and redesigned it to maintain the depth while avoiding the problem of conflicting flavors. Highland Park nailed it with this. The real magic of this scotch though is that no matter what you've had before it, it tastes at least good, usually great, and sometimes amazing. There is no other drink I have ever had that tastes good on all occasions. The subtlety required to achieve this is truly impressive and not matched by any other alcohol I have ever tasted. Smoky with salt and sea spray, but backed by sweet toffee, luscious orange, and mild apple. There is a hit of vanilla in here too and it definitely tastes aged with a coconut undertone hanging out there. It's sweet, smooth, and luxurious. Although not perfect, this drink is a triumph of balancing reasonable complexity with delicious, well-executed flavors that marry nicely. This is arguably less complex than Highland Park The Dark, but it is richer and has better flavors. It's arguably too in-your-face but it avoids the mineral notes and I love that about it. This is a masterpiece. There is so much going on here and the flavors range from good to excellent. This might not quite match Glenfarclas 25, but it is a capable rival.