The primary differences I notice between this and the Reserve are a more balanced nose and a much longer, smoother finish. On the palate, both whiskies share similar sweet notes, mainly caramel and cinnamon, but the Ocean Aged has more of a bitterness that persists on the finish, and a touch more salt as well. For the most part, I think the Ocean thing is just a touch on the gimmicky side, though there are some noticeable effects. I have to say though, for the price difference I don’t think it’s all that much better than the Reserve.