Nose has notes of charred oak and corn mash . Palate is decent and has notes of white grapes , oak , and soft oak. Decent delicate finish that actually last for nice length of time . I hate to use the word smooth , but this one does seem to have a nice taste that doesnt interupt the initial impression. however, that is also its con as it doesnt take the taster into any new notes or suprises. I could rate this a 3 star or a 4 star and justify the large difference depending on my mood for the night . I am about midway thru this bottle and each time i try it i get similar notes but a different opinion on how much i enjoy the bottle. Ultimately the juice is solid , still my expectations for a 12 year product are never met , but the price for this 12 year old juice its not to be overlooked.