Highland Park 12yo
http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/490099
No need to introduce the HP 12 here, it is a classic as it sets a high standard for all other entry level bottlings. Many claim that they are not what they used to be and lament about the good old days. But I still think this is one of the greater whiskies available at a more than reasonable price and if the quality has diminished over the years those early bottles must have been divine. I don't care too much, yet, about all the other HP products like the collectors Valhalla series, but you will always find a 12yo in my cabinet.
The Whisky
http://caskstrength.blogspot.be/2012/12/18-under-30-part-15-highland-park-12.html
Nose: a whiff of peat, oranges and very subtle smell of sherry.
Taste: again the oranges, smoke, but not too strong more like a smoldering fire, honey and some floral notes
Finish: fairly short, woody but spicy, definitely some rough grind black pepper in there
