MacNaMara Rum Cask Finish Blended Scotch

This is the least I've ever paid for a bottle of Scotch. Couldn't resist picking up a bottle for $35. Nose is very promising. Sweet brown sugar greets you along with oak and a hint of smoke to remind you that this is from Scotland. Palate starts hot and vert sweet. The rum influences knock you down like a blunderbuss. The flavours then round out with some dark fruits, chocolate and a puff of smoke. Finish is short, and leaves you with all of the notes of a golden rum. The youth of the spirits is apparent, but the blender has done a great job keeping the edges from being too rough. I have mixed (blended?) feelings on this one. On one hand, it tastes pretty good overall and you can't beat the price. On the other, it's a bit too sweet to drink neat. I can see it really shining as an interesting alternative to dark rum in cocktails or just with some cola and ice.