I get vanilla and pear on the nose. The whiskey is a bit astringent, and it delivers in the spice category. I get cloves, perhaps a bit of cinnamon, black pepper, maybe even some nutmeg? Ginger comes later. It's all there mixed in with a robust vanilla. I can definitely get some oaky wood, it's a little tannic, but not over powering. This is definitely a pleasant and interesting whiskey, and it's not too expensive. I'd buy it again- this is really one for the holidays!