The 1989 whisky is said to bring mellow oak and dried fruits to the overall composition, while 1998 whisky accounts for more than 25 percent of the total makeup and gives soft, mature, sweet vanilla notes. The youngest whisky (from 2007) adds lemon citrus character. The overall effect is a beautifully harmonious, complex dram in classic Speyside style. Purists may prefer individual vintage year bottlings—and 1995, 1998, and 2001 expressions are currently available in the U.S., but the price of Vintage Reserve makes it an attractive alternative and allows the imbiber to appreciate all the varying facets of this single malt.