So, I have a ton of gin tasting notes that need writing - several quality local gins, plus a few new acquisitions that are exquisite. But...it is currently -7*F according to the thermometer on our porch; that's -21.5 C or so. This is high proof, warm me up from the inside out whiskey weather. Fortunately, the Russell family has me covered at 116.8 proof, but for the ABV, this is a fairly smooth affair. There's a nice little afterburn at the tail end of the palate, but it's a pleasant kind of burn. The nose is full of caramel, cherry cola, pepper (black and white), and baking spice, with a dry, woody quality. The palate, while certainly showing some woody oak influence and a dry finish, is still youthful enough not to be dominated by the wood. In fact, the opening attack is rich and round, almost like a corn pudding richly flavored with caramel, vanilla, and spices. The spices prevail mid-palate, and then woody dryness and cola notes take over for the pleasantly long finish. This isn't exactly going to change your mind about what bourbon can be...but if you like bourbon, it's a must-try. If nothing else, I sure feel a whole lot warmer.