The 96 and 97 are distinctly different. When the 97 was blended some mexican seco was used. The primary differnce with this addiiton is that it will wet the palate quite a bit. In fact, some people say you can "drink" the 1997. Realative to the 97, the 96 has a dry finish and a more subltle spicy aroma. The 97 is more obvious. The 96 is a very good smoke. I highly recommend it. IMHO I like the 96 more than the 97 but really like them both.