This is a very interesting rye. Dark fruits and roasted nuts along with mint and other herbal and floral notes. Palate is very smooth and taste confirms the nose. Round and medium finish. Definitely understand why some say it tastes like Christmas... I can see why this is a great rye, I'm just not a huge fan of rye. I'm giving it a 3.5 given it's complexity. I use the rating scale below. Distiller uses a scale of 5 and I use a scale of 10, but I’m sure you’re not too drunk to do the math! 1. Disgusting - So bad I poured it out. 2. Poor - I wouldn't consume by choice. 3. Bad - Multiple flaws. 4. Below average - Not bad, but many things I'd rather have. 5. Good - Just average. 6. Very Good - Better than average. 7. Great - Well above average. 8. Excellent - In a league of its own. 9. Incredible - An all-time favorite. 10. Perfect