On the nose is soft sweetness, subdued oak aromas and charcoal. Aromas of sour, damp hay, wood glue, chalky banana candy and maybe peanut shells. - To the palate it is incredibly soft, with notes of sour wood, damp hay and light rye grain. I find it very difficult to pick up many notes from this. There’s a chalkiness on the palate, and a vague sweetness. - In the finish it leaves some sour, musty wood, light sugar, wood glue, lacquer thinner, and a hint of peanut. — With a drop of water, it smells like stale cereal, and tastes like water, with a slight wood-grain finish. —//— Bourbon Mark: 72 —//— It’s funny, but I used to think this one was better than the Old No.7 as it made it smoother and lighter. But, smooth and light are boring, and I’m actually finding some of the better flavours have been stripped away along with the alcoholic sharpness of youth. It’s interesting how my palate has changed over time with a lot more whisky experience to train my senses. — Tasting side-by-side, Old No.7 will take your head off by comparison! Which is hilarious. Basically, all the flavours amped up, and far more alcoholic on the palate. I don’t really enjoy either, if I’m being honest.