This has a soft spot in my heart since Four Roses Small Batch and Single Barrel were some of the first mid-shelf bourbons I've purchased. I always think the nose is superior to the taste, which is more much bite than you expect for 100 proof. It could be the combination of high rye and oak barrel that contributes to that burn, sometimes it is hard to distinguish for someone like me with a middling palate. Still a really good whiskey and an affordable single barrel option.