The nose is leathery and oaky with hints of smoke and caramel. A slight sweetness develops as it opens up which also gives way to the slightest bit of pepper, adding a nice balance to the sweetness. The palate works its way across the mouth and into the corners, leading with a wave of black pepper. The oak and leather is rather mild, giving way to the spice. Undertones of sweet caramel are present, but ultimately this whiskey is somewhat two dimensional. Still, for the age and price point, it is very solid. The finish is medium, somewhat short with a lasting pepperiness with oaky caramel that quickly fades.