Nose is soft but has notes of sherry and wine, perhaps port, orange peel and chocolate. The taste is smooth and mellow with orange, tobacco, dark chocolate and mince pies. Some mustiness and slight smoke, overall well balanced and fine, but it didn't get me over excited either. Of all the Famous Grouse blended malts we tried at a tasting at Glenturret distillery, (see Distilleries) including the 10, 12, 15, 18, 21 and 30 year old, this was my favorite and had the best overall balance of wood and spirit. However given the price point I think the Famous Grouse blended scotch is better value and the Famous Grouse 12 year old Gold Reserve might be a better dram.