Let it sit and breathe for a few minutes and this bourbon is amazing. Nose is sweet, heavy vanilla, burnt sugar and oak. Rich and creamy mouth feel, intense and spicy. Palate not as sweet as the nose. Spicy oak comes to the front, pepper first, then vanilla and caramel, with cinnamon and a hint of cherry syrup. Finish is long and vibrant. The explosion of flavor lingers on the palate, and this bourbon doesn't let you forget it's high proof. At first taste, I did not think this batch matched batch B518. On second taste, I think it is at least as good, maybe slightly better. Slightly different profile, with a little less sweetness and more spice, but a damn good dram.