The smoke and peat hit like a freight train. People say it is like campfire smoke and they would be right. It is salty and fairly oily. It's very earthy and has a bit of ash to it. All in all not bad. I am usually a blended scotch guy with chivas 18 being my go to, so this is a drastic change in direction for me. Second try notes. I added two ice cubes and covered them and let it sit for a couple minutes. It definitely cuts down on the peat and smoke.