Let's cool expectations right away...You'll never mistake this for Stagg. It's good, but it's not nearly that good. Nose is hot, with ethyl cloaking the apple and oak, but not in an objectionable way.. Palate is obviously rye, and there are the expected nutmeg/cinnamon/anise flavors that meld nicely with the vanilla and caramel that are in all KC product. Finish is medium and mostly just novacaine numb. It's good, and you should try it. Preferably at a bar where you don't spend $75+ for the whole bottle. Just don't think it's anywhere near Stagg. Or Stagg Jr. Or Whistle Pig. Or even Rare Breed Rye.