One of the smoothest sipping straight rye whiskies I have ever had the pleasure to sip, and sip, and sip. (I have nearly finished my first bottle without taking the time to make a mixed drink.) Being 51% rye this could pass to many tastes as a high rye bourbon. In other words, the rye mint and licorice are there---but not in a "in your face" manner. "Extra-aged" but NAS; but, no matter, it is super smooth and its 94 proof could easily pass for 80 proof. To my taste there is a nearly perfect balance of rye spice, corn sweetness, and the vanilla and spice from the oak. I caught this on sale for $25---I am very happy.