This one kind of annoys me now. This was THE bourbon that got me on my adventure with bourbons. On the nose, a mild black pepper and rye spice are forward with vanilla and a light citrus in the background. The palate has notes of the rye and pepper spices with a Granny Smith apple tartness also present mixed in with the typical bourbon notes of brown sugar, vanilla, and caramel. The annoyance is that the flavors all dissipate all too quickly. This is definitely due to this pour being 80 proof. It makes Basil Hayden the perfect gateway whisky, but it also makes it a frustrating knowing that all other Basil Hayden products retain the 80 proof. Also frustrating is the knowledge that there are so many other bourbons cheaper than this offering that offer more, cause lets face it, this one is not one of Jim Beam's cheaper brands. My frustration is that I will continue to buy it as it was my first love. Overall Impression: Nose 3.25/5; Taste 2.75/5 Overall 3/5 Repurchase: Yes Type: Special Occasion (only because she was my first true love)