I probably got my hopes up on this one for a diamond in the rough. Well its kinda got the rough part down. Im not gonna slam on this scotch too bad cause it is what it is....a blend. This means there will be some grain influence to a certain degree which will ultimately determine how good it is. This starts out nice and tastes decent( imo this is very similar to Famous Grouse- see review if you want notes) but the problem is the grain kicks in too frequently and pretty much kills the score. Its not bad but its not good. I paid a low price of $16 but would absolutely not re-purchase. Im being a bit harsh as compared to other bottom dwellers this is good but I got sucked in by the 12yr age statement. Alas a case of you get what you pay for.........68/100 ....drinkable, mixable but not recommended unless you are impervious to the grain twang