To start, admittedly, I have NEVER been a fan of JD until now...at least with this one. On the nose, it smells like something else completely; something better with more depth, leather, and charred oak. These scents transfer right on through to the taste. After some initial heat on the lips, a smoothness and full body settled in for some enjoyment. This is definitely not a thin, overly filtered and marketed whisky. Additionally, there is a touch of spice and maybe clove, perhaps. Overall, this was a surprising pour for me and one worth recommending...as a kid, I didn't like beets, but sometimes it's worth giving things a second chance. Cheers!