Basil Hayden’s Bourbon (750ml)
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Spirit Type
Whisk(e)y Learn More
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Spirit Category
Bourbon Whiskey
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Size
750ml
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Country
USA
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Region
Kentucky
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Sub-Region
Clermont
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Tasting Notes
Baking SpiceCaramelEarth
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How to Drink
Neat
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Glassware
Double Rocks
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ABV
40%
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Vegan Friendly
Yes
Bourbon brands tend to celebrate individuals when naming their product and here we see the celebration of Basil Hayden Sr. The Hayden Family emigrated to the United States from England in 1660. Basil Hayden Sr. would later lead a group of 25 families from Maryland to Kentucky where he would start distilling. In 1796, he broke ‘the rules’ by mixing small grains into the mash of a traditional corn based whiskey.
Today, Basil Hayden’s Bourbon is produced by Jim Beam (a subsidiary of Suntory) and is the lightest-bodied bourbon whiskey in their portfolio.
Tasting Notes
From the distillery: On the nose, charred oak and sweet notes of vanilla & caramel with hints of dried fruit. On the palate, charred oak flavor that is complemented with sweet brown sugar, a touch of black pepper, and dried fruit to round it out. The finish is pleasant, with lingering charred oak and a touch of dried fruit.
Method
A straight bourbon, aged in new, charred oak barrels for a minimum of two years with no added colouring or flavouring. 63% Corn, 27% Rye and 10% Malted Barley, Basil Hayden’s is considered a “high rye bourbon.”
Our Thoughts
Nose: This is like walking through a stable; think old leather and horsehair- this bourbon smells like you’ve stuck your head in a new oak barrel. Brown sugar and caramel come through once you’ve let it open up a bit.
Palate: Earthy, gritty wood flavours, bruised apple, and ripe asian pear. Some added shaved chocolate and baking spices.
Alan
I love this bourbon. It is my go to evening drink. It is relaxing. I drink it with one small ice cube. My favorite part is smelling the bourbon before sipping. I love that you can taste the bourbon on your tongue before consumption.