Dark, ruddy amber, very sticky. Nose is baking spices, toffee, mint, tart fruit and rye mustiness. Reminiscent of cacao dusted pecans and a Mexican mocha. Deglet noor dates. Even with a good splash of water, there's still a lot of heat here. Dry oak, lots of spices (clove) and more burnt caramel. Long finish notes really become out with another splash of water: cinnamon, chocolate and toasted coconut. This is really a great way to experience a whiskey that "opens up" with the addition of water. It's big and complex, but almost too bright, hot and acidic for my preference. Revisited a 3rd time... Got the fruit this time. Berries or cherries of the more tart variety... the brown sugar I get, too. After looking at all of my ratings of 3.75 and 4, I can't NOT put this at a 4. It's massive, juicy and has an incredible drawn out finish. It may not be my favorite, but it deserves a 4, without a doubt.