Very much a savory bourbon when neat. Alcohol heat, tartness, hot cinnamon, some tree nuttiness, then lots of char and wood and a longish dry finish dominated by tannins and a brief encounter with dark/baking chocolate. Adding a little water took down the tartness, that was dominating, bringing out more complex notes of rye spice, nuttiness, and chocolate. Also, it brings out a little sweetness that makes it a bit more balanced and very similar to its sister, Rowan's Creek..but trading sweetness and cherries for oak and tartness. Collection worthy, especially if you like it on the rocks.