The first couple nips of this I found to be unbearably hot, even though I prefer my whiskey with some bite. A few weeks later I find this to be much more tolerable and pleasant. Not sure if the batches vary significantly, as I've seen others say the proof seemed well-hidden in this whiskey. The taste is not traditional bourbon. There's a malty-ness and strong chocolate note that I don't typically find in bourbon. I'm liking this better a couple weeks after opening. Very pleasant but unconventional for a bourbon.