I really picked up the oaky notes with some pleasant chocolate cherry flavors on the palate. There is some pleasant burn on the back end with a smooth red pepper long finish. It doesn't quite coat the mouth,but you do get a little of that oily feeling. To really take in all of the flavors have it neat and don't take large sniffs when trying to pick up notes as the proof can overpower the senses. Its a fantastic bourbon that any whiskey fan should try at least once and get a full bottle. It punches well above its price point.