A bit sharp without water; unsure whether thatapos;s the spirit or the oak (tending toward the former). Water evens it out easily. Very malty, chocolate-y and spicy, like a cinnamon-laced chocolate-chip cookie. Beautiful late fruitiness upon swallowing, with exotics like papaya, mango and guava leading the way. I have to say I really enjoy this palate and consider it an outstanding performance for an affordable 18-year-old OB.