I’ve tried other Russel Reserve bottles and haven’t been a fan at all. I was able to try this at a bar and figured “why not” since I like ryes. I had low expectations… The nose wasn’t bad, haha. It was more sweet than other ryes I’ve had. I took away vanilla, caramel, some “oakyness” and then a little baking spice. It was tailored to a more bourbon smell than rye smell. The palate was enjoyable. Way more sweet than other ryes and had tons of vanilla and caramel. It wasn’t bad at all, just not what I expected from a rye. The finish was short with a hint of heat. The heat wasn’t too bad but it came out of nowhere haha. The oak flavor kept coming through which again shocked me since I was expecting more rye flavors. Overall, this good. Not your typical rye but good. I wouldn’t buy this bottle but I would definitely have another pour if in front of my. Not bad at all.