Very nicely stated. I like the Blue better than the Gold, but it's just not worth the money if you imbibe regularly. The Gold is a great value at $50-60. It's exquisite.
Have you found a single malt that has the same balance? I've tried dozens, but they are so idiosyncratic and imbalanced that I keep returning to JW. I do like The MacAllen, but I am suspicious that the sherry may be providing some of the body on the mid-palate and flavor on the finish.