They claim the recipe hasn't changed, since 1910, yet the abv has dropped from 86.6 proof, to 80 proof, so...this has a clear, golden appearance, with uniform alcohol legs. The aroma is of strong caramel candy, with some corn syrup. The taste is similar, with smoothness, at the edges of the sip. The body is medium, and Ballantine's Finest finishes moderately long. It's a good value. RJT