Color is amber, maybe just a little more yellow than dark. Nose is a sweet burn with notes of pepper. The ethanol burn is not off-putting, as it contains the notes of rye and pepper and other spices that draw you in. First sip is sweet with notes of honey, pepper, and baking spices, with a subtle orange peel note. Finishes with a little heat and baking spices that linger. Overall, this an enjoyable Rye, especially at the price. There are better options out there, but few at the price range, and less that are not just repackaged MGP product.