Color: light-medium copper. Nose: Familiar vanilla and caramel. Slight hint of molasses. Palate: Initial alcohol burn followed immediately by cocoa — like a packet of hot cocoa. First time I've got such a strong cocoa flavor. I've seen it mentioned in the expert reviews here, for other bottles I've had in the past. But never have I actually tasted it until now. I'm getting a lot from this juice on its maiden voyage. Slightly sweet... slightly bitter cherry on the front end, orange zest appears on the back end. I drink my bourbon with either an ice cube or a large ice ball — depending on proof. Drinking this with a cube. As the cube has dissolved, a smooth and leathery-caramel flavor is revealed. Finish: Spicy and oaky with a slight drying quality. Final thoughts: I've wanted to try past Bardstown offerings, but they've always been a bit over what I've been willing to pay for, going on reviews alone. But coming in at under $50.00, this is excellent bourbon. A smooth, flavorful easy sipper. I would definitely buy this again. As a side note, the bottle is really nice. The artwork that appears inside the bottle, against the back light, is very pretty. Brownie points!