My initial impression was that there was nothing to distinguish this from the 86 proof. But I have learned to give new whiskeys a few tries before I make judgement. This one definitely had more to say after I gave it some time. The Rye presence is much more pronounced, there is a lot more of the pumpernickel funky notes and black pepper and cinnamon than I remember from the 86 proof. I would not put this on a pedestal with respect to other low-cost Bourbons, however given the proof and the spicy rye presence it would be a great dram to have on hand for cocktails, and it's a more than decent drink on its own. 3.5