Definitely the VBIC. I get that peppery note as well even though my nic is good because I use it in other mixes. I'll try what you suggested. You think 6% TFA strawberry and 4% FV and 4% VBIC will be the same as 6% strawberry and 8% VBIC ?Could be the nic.
But… lots of people get pepper from vanilla bean ice cream, I'm one of themIf the pepper is coming from the VBIC - which for me it does at anything over 4% - try 4% VBIC and 4% TFA vanilla swirl.