This is the first cask strength American whisky I've had and only the second American rye that I've tasted, the first being Sazerac Straight Rye which was pretty darned good! I initially tried this straight up but found this to be way too hot at 60% ABV. After adding 1 tsp water for a 1.5 oz serving I am finally able to appreciate this fine rye. My nose isn't working very well tonight, totally congested but there seems to be a pleasant, sweet raisin bun-like smell. On the palate there's lots of caramelized sugar, along with a nice amount of pepper and some vanilla. The finish is sweet menthol and medium length. The flavour profile reminds me a great deal of the Knob Creek Small Batch, but with more pepper up front. Very curious to try the Knob Creek Small Batch Straight Rye just to see how it stacks up. Especially since it is a very respectable 50% ABV a costs less than half the price here (49$).