Tasting on large rock. This whiskey has a crisp, spicy, woody aroma reminiscent of black or even chili pepper with a whiff of pithy orange like Aperol. It has a very pungent, acerbic tongue-tingling taste reminiscent of peppercorns steeped in vanilla. Straining the imagination reveals a hint of orange pith or maybe unripe pear. I am surprised by professional reviews that picked out dozens of flavors. To me, the vanilla flavor is unshakably overpowering, and while its spicy assertiveness may be preferable in a cocktail, I think it isn't the best for sipping straight.