Lots of oak on the nose, underlined with a wet stone, cherry and cooked agave, very slight vanilla. Entry reveals very light pepper but transitions quickly with a sweet wood/cherry, but still present throughout the finish. Finish continues with pepper and almonds in the back of the palate. Nice lasting finish.

Aroma is relatively subdued with sweet, cooked agave and a bit of wet stone/chalk. Flavor opens with peppery spice that is undercut quickly with a fruity sweetness. There is also a distinct earthy minerality in the flavor as well. Finish is medium length. 12-24-2017 (Annual XA tasting) 70-75-80 side-by-side

Aroma: Lots of oak but not overpowering. There's also a bit of cherry and almond. Overall, very smooth. Flavor: Lots of pepper and mint, as well as, some oak. I was hoping for more sweet notes but it's still solid. I think this is something a whiskey drinker would love. Finish: Very solid. It hangs around for a while and definitely not too overpowering.