Nose: The nose greets you with black licorice candy, specifically the Good and Plenty candies my grandma had on her desk at work that she would always give me when I was little. The nose also has a heavy whiff of leather, like a fresh leather jacket. Other notes follow like pine, cinnamon, orange zest and peach. Taste: The palate begins for me with a tingling spiciness shifting into a citrusy tang. Though it isn't sweet per se, I am reminded of the Pixie Stix powdered candy, which is fun; I'm realizing this is a rye that brings back nostalgic memories for me. Opinion: From what I understand rye had (more so in the past, not so much lately) been given flack about being an inferior whiskey. But I am very much surprised by how much I enjoyed this rye! I think it's good neat and I'm sure it would make a great backbone for some classic cocktails. And, being as it's in the Beam family it is easily accessible and affordable too! I picked mine at a local liquor store for $18.00. I think if you're new to rye, this is a good place to start! Well done Jim Beam! Sláinte!