I like a good rye whisky now and then, and I've enjoyed the stuff I've had from Balcones Distilling. I hadn't planned on getting this today, but there it was, it was within what I could afford (though right up at the very top of that range), and I'd wanted to try it, so I got it. I hate to say it, but I wish I'd gotten a bottle of Bulleit rye, or gone for a bottle of Maker's Mark bourbon. It's not that this is bad whisky, it's just that it's not all that good. The color is a beautiful copper in the glass. This is - as the label says - a 100 proof whisky, with a mash bill of 100% rye (various varieties). Per the Balcones custom, the label says that it's AGED AT LEAST 24 MONTHS IN OAK. NOSE: Warm smoke, alfalfa hay, a hint of grass, and alcohol. TASTE: Of course there's the spiciness of rye, then grass, salt, a very faint oak note, and semi-sweet chocolate. This whisky brought out the saliva like crazy, something I've never experienced before, and there's a much thinner mouthfeel than I'd've expected at 100 proof. FINISH: Long, with just two notes - chocolate and bitter oak. This will go next to the Brimstone. Neither one is the best that Balcones produces, and certainly this isn't the best rye whisky I've ever had. I don't think I'll buy another bottle, not with Bulleit rye out there.