This isn't a bad bourbon. For the proof, the price is nice. It smells nice (and caramelly!) and tastes ok. Flavor doesn't last long; a little caramel and a little pepper. For the professional ratings, I am wondering if I am just not getting good barrels. Having now tried 3 bottles, I can't go higher than 2.5 stars. I'll keep buying (see the first 2 points above), but this isn't something for which I can say the complex taste is the pleasure provider for me...