Heathery, spicy, and wrapped in sweet caramel at the same time, the Cragganmore 12 offers the sweet pear character of a Glenlivet 12, but with a racy hint of a Kilchoman. The presence of Scotland's fastest flowing river, together with peat from the uplands to the south, was the reason original Cragganmore owner "Big" John Smith felt that it would be the perfect place for the perfect distillery. And who could argue with his genius? Successive managers of Cragganmore have strove to continue his vision of delivering the sweetest, most complex malt whiskies: fruity, honeyed notes are often found. And many a taster of has talked lyrically of its fruitcake and toffee flavors: "One of Speyside's greats. Elegant and austere. Gradually, almost reluctantly, reveals itself. The most fragrant of whiskies: delicate, herbal, flowery. A palate blossoming with flavours, and a long, lingering, finish." (Michael Jackson, whisky writer and expert)