This whiskey has character! Of all the bourbons I've tried so far, this one benefits from water the most. The nose was nearly nonexistent until I put in a bottle cap of water and then it opened up. I've never gotten so much smokey character on a bourbon nose. The palate starts with a quick blast of sweetness and becomes oaky and nutty quickly. The high proof and strong flavor don't make this the most passive experience--but you knew that's what you were getting with 120 proof. The oak and roasted chestnuts grow into the finish, which also presents a massive char character. The consistency is thick and the finish lasts quite a while. Combined with the warmth from the high proof, it's almost like you're roasting chestnuts in your mouth with oak firewood! Love it! Edit: drinking the last dram from the bottle as I type this. Still think it's amazing. Still can't get over the perfect nutty woody finish--strong but not bitter at all. I just hope my next bottle lives up to this one.