This bottle tells you to expect oak and it delivers two ricks worth of oak nose and flavor. Strong oak but yet somehow isn't overpowering. A subtle hint of black cherries and splash of cola are hiding in there on both the aroma and taste. If you don't like the smell please mail your bottle to me so I can dispose of properly. Your nose will not mislead your tongue on this one. Your brain will have to remind your mouth this is a full strength liquor as the flavorful smoothness will fool you.