Initial taste provided me parts of green apple, cherries, and a bit of black licorice. It seemed to increase in spiciness and a bit astringent on the tongue and back of the throat. Overall I wasn’t initially impressed served neat. I added a few drops of water to open the flavors which really made a difference to me. The initial bitter/sour flavors mellowed allowing the oak and char to come through more predominately. There was still a bit of burn in the throat, but much nicer than before. It finished with a pleasant smooth oak taste.