When the label says "distilled from cane and grain", you know its pretty basic..but. The thing is, this has a corny nose and a corny taste but finishes smooth. There is just something about this I like, it may not "WOW" some but doesn't disappoint either. In my opinion what shine should taste like, if you can find it try it. Tried it's competition, Old Smokey....much perfer the taste of this. First found it at the distillery in Gatlinburg, has been a favorite shine since.