Tasting a large pour in a red solo cup from a very generous friend. Even though this Pappy is “not Pappy,” it still commands a Pappy premium, it’s still incredibly difficult to find and it’s still pretty good. Even though it’s not Pappy, it’s still definitely not Step-Pappy. Nose is quite fruity and mapley with some nice, dark spice notes. It does smell like a wheated bourbon, but it’s more balanced than most. It’s incredibly easy to drink and has very minimal burn and bitterness. The same dark, spicy fruit notes are evident on the palate and the higher proof does a good job of carrying the flavors without being overly boozy. This may be an incredibly overhyped, overpriced 10 year-old bourbon, but it’s still the best 10-year-old bourbon I’ve ever tried.