Surprisingly “okay” for a $20 bottom shelf bottle. I pick up a significant apricot/citrus taste. Smell is sweet and unsurprisingly very similar to Knob Creek’s scent. For 86 proof though, it zings you pretty good certainly not a smooth drinker. I’ve had barrel proof whiskeys (and Knob Creek 120’s) that go down smoother but this has a nice flavor profile to it. Can’t knock this one too much as it’s a staple in most bars for happy hour cocktails. It will certainly make a nice old fashioned. Cheers! Knocking this one down a 1/2 star. Haven’t developed a palate for it. It’s astringent and hotter than the 86 proof says it should be. I’ve had 125+ providers that are smoother. Of course they’re not $18/bottle. 3/3/20 Update: I just read my original review and it is pretty much exactly what I said the first time, at least I’m consistent.