Mild vanilla and caramel as it touches your mouth, a very subtle oak comes in mid way, it ends with a mild bitterness. Your left with a slight bitter sweet taste. No burn or pepper in it at all. I can see why it is popular, it doesn't the commit to any distinction, it is a very mild and balanced bourbon. Buffalo Trace is advertised as a sweet bourbon, but for me it could be much sweeter; the price is also a deterrent for me, even though $27 isn't an expensive bourbon you can do better for cheeper - Evan Williams BIB or OGD just to name a couple.