I think I just don't have a sweet tooth. My 2nd rum. It's sweet. Like southern sweet tea, with an extra helping of sugar. I don't think I got any thyme or citrus. I just got sugar cane and caramel. I had it with ice, and plenty of it. I don't think it's bad...especially considering I paid $26. But I'm sure I could've added a few bucks more and get a Crown Royal Northern rye at $30, and enjoyed it much more.