Normally, I'm not one to add water to a dram, perfering to take it neat to get a feel for the whiskey but adding a few drops of water does wonders. Milds out the Spicey notes to bring out notes of smoke, vanilla and the briney-dill taste i've come to appreciate. A little herb on the finish; sort of a rosemary. I don't think this Rye comes to life till the water is added. Its an amazing value if you can get it at MSRP