It feels like slaughtering a sacred cow to say that this is merely good rather than great, but...it's good, not great. The nose is spiced orange creme patissiere smeared over leather; the palate is aggressive, woody, and leathery, with caramel, spices, orange peel, and a cherry-tinged finish. For me, this is the date that's very attractive, but comes on just a little too strong. Water brings out a milder, smoother palate with a little nip of salt amidst the leather, oak, spice, and cherry. Improved, but still not the best bourbon I've ever had, either. Then again, I'm the oddball who prefers Baker's to Booker's, so maybe it's just my palate. Still worth drinking, and quite good...just a bit overpriced and overrated.