I'll be the first to insist that there is a quantum leap from college-level rotgut to the Jameson level of liquor. Unfortunately, there's then another quantum leap between that level and entry-level single malts or bottles in that $40 price range. Jameson is kind of a downhill drink. The nose started off well with a huge note of stewed apples, but then layered in a whiff of paint thinner and light cream. The palate was light and airy, with little flavor development aside from nondescript sweetness. Innocuous is the best word for the first two phases. The finish was more than a little unpleasant, however. It didn't burn, but it just had a sour, bitter taste almost like a leaf, a twig, or tree sap -- and it built up as I kept drinking it. In the future, Jameson is going to be exclusively a shot or a mixer for me or, very possibly, something I never try again.