The Aroma is just like a cigar humidor. One you walk into to select some cigars. So that means some tobacco & wood, perhaps cedar. As it opens smelled pretzel and a touch of sweetness. Bright & crisp copper in color. First sip makes me think this is a high rye mashbill. Good spice throughout. Biscuity, bitter & spicy. All in a nice way. One of the most bitter Bourbons I've tasted. Peppery spice on top with some balancing sweetness just below the surface. Three drops of water killed the Aroma and exploded the spice. Wow, the finish is so much bigger with the water. You have to be patient with this in the glass. Cocoa and chocolate flavors emerge and the balance of spice and sweetness hits the right spot. Definitely drink with water in my opinion. You can tell we are over 100 proof with the heat. It's good. Just not sure it's worth the elevated price.