The main thing on this as a neat dram is that it's somehow better than I was expecting. I've had JW Red many times in the past, but I'm struggling to remember a time where I had it neat as a whisky without a mixer. You can taste some of the Caol Ila and Talisker as wisps and hints against the predominantly sweet grain whisky base. There is honey and light smoke on the nose (almost a memory of Talisker). The palate is decidedly OK, with some layers of creamy sweet spice and wood. Once the initial creaminess leaves the spice is the predominant taste which lingers for ages. Again a little smoke and oak at the very end. For me, this is a cocktail whisky. It's fine as a dram and I'm more than happy to drink it as such. A decent blend.