First sniff is hot and a little funky. Some caramel and corn try to show up, but the alcohol jumps out first and doesn’t calm down. Smells young and aggressive. First sip comes in hot too. There’s some sweetness and oak in there, but it never really comes together. A little bitter, a little weird, and the finish is short and drying. Not awful just not great. Don’t overthink a pairing. If you’re smoking, keep it mild and cheap. This isn’t a bourbon you build a pairing around. Bottom line, Balcones Texas Pot Still is interesting but unrefined. I’d drink it if offered, but I’m not reaching for it.