This absolutely benefits from a couple drops of water. The nose is mellowed and more sweetness comes out. {12-25: Actually, the water brings out much more vanilla. Some people may get this without water, but my nose needed the water.} I think there was more smoke before the water and none detected after. The mouth feel is rich or oily. I taste a sweetness of some sort. {12-25: maybe cherry} I do not have the ability to really distinguish the aromas and flavors but I really like this bourbon and it does not taste so high proof. It does does not burn at all. The finish is pleasant and lingers for a few minutes.