Tried neat. On the nares it comes off as hot with notes of cinnamon, oak, vanilla. It’s sweet up front like maple syrup that quickly surprises you and takes a turn for a hot burn and strong kentucky hug. After I have a few more sips and the heat no longer takes over (or my tongue is numb from the 128.4 proof) it disperses into notes of caramel, toffee, vanilla, caramel, red hots, & candy apple. I will try with a few drops of water and come back to make an addendum! Stand by.