I have this bottle open for a while now and it is a kinda hidden gem. Balblair as well recently changed their design and expressions where they use direct age statements now. Not many have discovered the new lineup yet and I hope that will change soon because the whisky they deliver is really really good. (Tip: check out their website) Nose: sherry forward but (my personal preference) with a very nice spicy foundation, the Highland DNA swings right along a very unique profile with raisins, dried orange peel, cooked cherries, maple syrup, warm honey and some well balanced winter spices (cloves, ginger, anise ...). It is very rich and on the more sweeter spectrum Palate: strongly caramelized citrus fruit (candied lemons and oranges), mature wooden tannins, brown cane sugar, dark chocolate, cooked rhubarb, dark liquid honey, burned malt Finish: rich, mature, flavorful, not too sweet, lots of wood and a dark sherry background, cold coffee grounds This is such a nice whisky. I like it that much that I sometimes in the future will get the 18y. I would really recommend trying a sample or getting a dram of it if you can. So far this is one of my favorite Highland whiskies for sure.