2016 bottling. A hint of smoke on the nose, along with apples and caramel, and after a few minutes, vanilla. Somewhat of a sour note as well, and it stings like a higher proof. On the palate, acidic wood on the front end, bitter chocolate on the backend. The middle seems missing. Not sure why, I was expecting smoother, sweeter notes, but this is fairly sharp. Nice warmth going down. Hoping this opens up with time. 4/5/17 I get more of a nutty taste than last time, better than last time. The bitter oak notes are strong. Hopefully more airtime will continue to improve it. 5/5/17 Not too much has changed. Still sharp and acidic and woody, still feels like drinking a thin, bitter menthol concoction. I was promised an unmistakable flavor of roasted nuts. Where?! It does have a lingering finish. Not worth the hype nor the price, in my opinion. But I'd love to try the 2017 version. 7/19/17 2018 bottling. Good nose, lots of roasted caramel and orchard fruits. Vanilla, oak. On the palate, rich, creamier than expected, sweet, acidic sting at the end. Still getting some bitter notes, but more muted and pleasant, not as overwhelming as my 2016 bottle. Cacao and pecan nibs linger, as well as slight char. Maybe 3 stars this time around. 6/6/18