As a value bourbon that has been well aged it is my favorite pour at this time. I usually drink my various whiskies on the rocks with just a splash of water. This bourbon has some real character and a touch of burn but finishes with a hint of vanilla sweetness and oak. Yes there is a bit more barrel char from the longer aging and slightly higher proof but I have no problem with that. If smoothness more than character is your choice stick with the Canadian whiskies. Where I shop there is very little price difference between JB white (4 yrs.), JB green (5 yrs.), and JB black (8 yrs.). For my money I buy the black as an everyday pour. The green label is a good choice also.