The small batch Kentucky straight bourbon honours the legacy of Meredith Basil Hayden, Sr., who back in the 1790s was known to use more rye in his mashbill than other distillers. (He's also the chap that Old Grand-Dad bourbon is named after.) Crafted by the great Booker Noe in 1992, Basil Hayden bourbon utilises a similar mashbill as its namesake would have used, with high rye but a lighter take on the style.
Cracked black pepper, rye, and oaky spice. Hints of green pepper, lemon peels, and creamy, zesty lemon curd.
Rice Krispies, toasted cereal progressing to popcorn with gentle marshmallow, custard cream sweetness.
Toasty popcorn with lashings of butter!
I can't drink most bourbons - the sugar content in the cornmash goes straight to my stomach and makes me ill. Not so with Basil Hayden. I like the light notes and easy drinkability. I am a long time single malt scotch drinker and now that I am older I have moved beyond the heavy peaty ones there too, and my favourite is Cragganmore 12 yr old scotch - which is also a light floral drink. Maybe it's a question of age and changing taste buds, but I have been really impressed with Basil Hayden
I know this is a Bourbon but if you're into Irish whiskey at all then give this a try. Beautifully smooth, not too sweet, and very enjoyable. Similar to a Redbreast 12yo. A friend brought this home from a trip to the States and we ended up drinkin the whole bottle. So ahh yeah, we enjoyed it.
Very smooth, pleasant- but where’s the beef? Little depth or flavour, not competitive with some less expensive bourbons…
This is not the worlds most complex or challenging whiskey. If that’s what you’re looking for then you’ll be happier with a different product. However, this is by far the smoothest, most drinkable bourbon I’ve ever had, and I can’t take points away for it for being too easy to sip on. A very enjoyable experience all round. It’s simply a different animal, and should be judged as such. Deserves a place on any bevvy shelf.
This is one hell of a bourbon ? ?
