Light copper in color. Lots of oak in the Aroma and more wood notes than I remember. Rather light Aroma overall. Does open up with some baking spice and notably cinnamon. Not a great deal of sweetness in aroma or flavor. On the palate there is much more heat than other recent 100 proof items I've had. Couple drops of water brought out more pepper and Rye spice while muting the alcohol heat. I typically infuse my Rittenhouse with roasted peanuts and love it in that way. I will continue to enjoy in that fashion vs drinking in its original form.