The now famous C923. Big fan of the expression so let’s see how this highly regarded release stacks up. Nose is “dark” with well integrated notes of plum, caramel, date, French vanilla ice cream, fig, custard, nutmeg, tobacco and sweet oak. Complex and inviting. Ethanol is low given the proof. Palate brings the caramel and vanilla from the nose with less fruit than the aroma would indicate although I do get nice black cherry and berry notes. Add butterscotch, raisin, black pepper, hazelnut and toffee. Flavors are rich and decadent. Some heat is evident on the tongue. Finish is so damn long with a cinnamon/allspice/ginger bloom, brown sugar, old leather, and barrel char. Lingering wood note (which to me tastes more like bitter sandalwood than oak) after everything else fades away. Mouthfeel is full bodied and unctuous. A truly outstanding ECBP release. Just missed a 5.0 for being a wee bit hot, but it’s the most minor of flaws. At the $79.99 that I paid it’s highway robbery; if you find it at that price buy two and thank me later.