After reading many reviews, obviously my taste are different. For me, many other bourbons are better and for less $$. Dry, spice covers any other flavors. I tried water, ice. Didn't go the soda route. I'm not spending $55.00 to put a soda in what's supposed to be a top shelf bourbon. Keep waiting for this to live up to what I've read. It's on allocation here in Virginia. Just luck that I found it. Someone else can be lucky next time. Tried it, it's off my wishlist! For good 🙂