Berries and tannins on the nose, sweet grass and dry grain. Explodes in the mouth with ripe fruit, dry tannins and vanilla from the oak, and then a peppery-dry rye spice that lingers through a long finish. Lighter mouthfeel. I can see the Distiller reviewer's recommendation for a touch of water, or ice, to open up this really tight bourbon. Sweetness is there and shows up, but it's not overpowering, letting the oak and rye shine on. Tried this side by side with the Daviess County French Oak bourbon. Both play up the oak's influence on their bourbon--they are big drinks. But the wine finish of this one really rounds it out, adds another layer, and plays well with the oak and their wheated and high rye mashbill. But then, I'm often a fan of wine/sherry/port-casked whisk(e)ys.