Strong nose at first of rubbing alcohol, oak with some smoke. Burns at first sip and on the way down. Bought a bottle of this, wished I would have tasted this bourbon 1st. For me 99% of scotches and Irish whiskeys are too smokey and peaty to truly enjoy for me. This bourbon comes off as too smoky, woody as well. Even though this one is only 18% rye, it's a solid pass for me, and overpriced.