I have been a fan of Blanton's for quite some time. This is my first experience with Blanton's Gold. I found it to be very smooth with just enough astringence to remind you that you are drinking quality bourbon. I am torn between the gold and the regular Blanton's due to the small variance in taste, though both are excellent. The hint of Vanilla and Caramel as it sits on the tongue is quite delecious and very smooth. The astringency comes in the finish, which is very light and not "hot". I drink it neat in order to focus on the experience without any other inputs. All this being said, it just plain tastes good!