This is a really tough rating. On the plus side, I do get a fair amount of complexity going on in the nose with the different malted barley strains. Additionally the mouth feel and finish is outstanding. I do get some of the chocolate come through and on the finish a bit of cherry and this definitely drinks differently than traditional bourbons. On the side I don’t care for as much, I get an ashy taste that pulls the rating down for me. For the $45, this does deliver a different experience and glad I have it. Will see how it opens up over time. Retried in late Jan …. Still the same. That ashy taste is quit off putting and really hard to get past. Not looking to buy another and the 3 stars I originally rated would likely go down. Just not a fan.