Nose: caramel or vanilla that is very faint. Spice finish. Peppermint is a fair comp. Although more abrasive. Rubbing alcohol at deeper notes. Lingers in nostrils with a rubbing alcohol burn. 1st: lingering bitterness. Dark chocolate type bitterness, or black coffee. Very short sweetness at the outset. Very brief. Spicy. Again more cayenne than peppermint. H2O: best after two pours. Can feel a creamier finish with more of the vanilla bean emerging. Still, quite short. Spice is more muted. Tastes a little more like a peppermint. Notes are still subtle behind the strong proof. Ultimately a strong, very alcoholic bourbon with muted tastes. If you like the burn and spice, it’s up your ally.