I've probably drank more buffalo trace than any other bourbon but that's only because it's my go to bourbon for cocktails. At 90 proof it has just enough umph to hold up in a cocktail and at only $25 or so a bottle it's a great value. As for sipping neat well, I have definitely had worse and while it may not be unique in any way it does make for a solid every day dram. The nose starts strong with rye, caramel and mint. The palate is a touch too sweet, not terribly so but may be a bit too much for some. It also has strong hints of apple, pear and vanilla. The finish is pretty solid, not overly long with a slight kick but overall pretty smooth. Its definitely not unique and some would even say bland but taking it for what it is, it's a solid dram. I would probably rate this about average at 2.5, maybe 2.75 but for the value and for how well it works in cocktails I'm giving it a 3.