Initially tasted without dilution but the proof is a bit too high to appreciate the flavours so I diluted to about 46%. Nose: Vanilla and mint are at the forefront here. It seems there is a little orange zest and maybe a touch of banana here. Palate: I was expecting it to be really rich and sweet off the top, but it's not. There's actually some nice early black pepper notes and dark chocolate - maybe the Lindt chili chocolate. The oak is prominent and some burnt toast emerges a few seconds later and lingers. Finish: Medium to long. The tannins and bitterness on the back of the palate remain for some time. More pepper tingles here too and a nice refreshing mintiness. Overall this is really good. Much more spice than I had anticipated and a quick comparison to 101 confirms my impression. It's a bit pricy here in Canada at about $80 CAD but it's a pretty great bourbon and when I can eventually get to the US I would definitely consider buying a bottle at a lower price.