I've been generally unimpressed by Canadian Whiskies. I picked up a couple 50 mls of this to see if it could change my mind. First impression? Love the color on this one. Dark, robust, almost coffee-like. Pleasant nose. Definite caramel with a smoky note as well. Neat, it Enters the palate with a sweetness that stays throughout. Bold oak and char definitely present. Pleasant burn on the finish. I usually find Canadian whisky "thin" with very little complexity. While this is not as complex as a good bourbon, it is very enjoyable and offers a great "heavy" mouth feel with several discernible characteristics. Way ahead of Crown's standard offering. the only thing that keeps this from earning a 4th star is when I think about dropping $30 on this one, I look at the Bourbon aisle and see Elijah Craig 12, or Buffalo Trace or Old Granddad BIB. All less money and all better whiskies IMHO.