The nose is light vanilla but pleasant. A long, lingering finish of sweet oak is the highlight here even if it is a touch drying. Only major knock against this whiskey for me is that there isn’t a bold enough hit of flavors on the palate. It could use some more proof but maybe there is a reason for that. Maybe the extra water cut the bitterness out? This isn’t abrasive at all, but buttery and creamy. This was an expensive pour, but I really liked it. Having said that, I don’t know if I’d buy a bottle though. I want a barrel proof whiskey if I’m going to spend the money on an expensive bottle ($150+). Good experience overall ~4.3