Deep, dark amber color. Fragrant, complex, and fruity nose shows peaches and apple pie, saddle leather, freshly split oak, vanilla, and noticeable but pleasant heat. The heat (96.4 proof) takes a leading role on the palate, with pepper, some woody and slightly bitter tannins, and a touch of cooling menthol. Brief vanilla on the finish. Kentucky Owl Confiscated merits attention: it holds its own in terms of aromatics, but doesn't follow through as strongly with its flavor profile and finish. It's pleasant to drink, but not a great value. It retails around $130 here in CT; I was able to purchase this from a friend of a friend's liquor store for about half that. N.B. All spirits tasted neat in a Glencairn glass.