Nose is light and fruity with notes of cherry and apple, light vanilla and oak. Nose is very pleasant. Almost like a fresh cold apple juice. Carmel and green raisins. Peppermint. Just tried the nose again 2 days later and got straight up grape Kool aid on the nose. First sip: a little minty and spicy like a red hot. Leaves a good finish lingering for about 20 seconds or so. Return sip 2: so smooth, good burn going down, rye spice is lighter than other eyes I've had. Overall this is a nice rye whiskey especially for 28 bucks. At only 90 proof though I'd rather have the knob Creek rye for 29.99 at 100 proof. The knob Creek is more oaky, and a little more complex on the flavor.