Finally getting around to another review. I've had this bottle for a couple of weeks now, but just getting around to giving it a formal tasting. Right off the bat, this is a mighty fine bourbon! The 1897 in the name is a nod to the year the bottled in bond act was passed. As with all BIB whiskeys, this is the requisite 50% ABV and is at least 4 years old, although there is no age statement on the bottle. In the glass this whiskey is a very nice dark amber color. Swirling creates a thick oily coating that produces legs slowly. The nose is wonderful, full of oak and caramel, with little to no burn. There is some vanilla and spice notes as well, but mostly just that amazing sweet oak. The palate is more of the same with sweet caramel, vanilla, and toffee flavors as well as some heat. The burn is noticeable as it should be with a 100 proof dram but not harsh at all. Very smooth. There are some cinnamon and peppery spice notes as well, with a fairly thick mouthfeel. The finish is fairly long, dry, and oaky. This is not a complex whiskey. This is bourbon, plain and simple, but done very well. The oak tones in this whiskey are some of the best I've tasted, just makes you want more. It's a fantastic sipper, and pretty good on the rocks as well. I will definitely save this for those times I want something straight, no mixing for this bottle. At $50 it is a tad pricey, but worth it in my opinion. 4.5/5. Cheers!