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 like the cask strength, and bookers (127proof) - one of my favorites - I prefer to drink straight. Having that said, the basil Hayden does taste like its diluted too much, almost to a maximum. So the taste and aroma are kinda on further subtler side. But, overall - it's sipable, shotable, and smooh - as u start drinking it, u are likely to have more. I recommend tasting it just to experience bourbon with lightest body.
If you've seen the film listed above then you know just what the hell I'm talking about. If not; a man is privy to just a few great ones (women) in his lifetime. Once you know, you know. This bourbon is one of those great ones. Like the Woodford Reserve, if you were lucky enough to have the Basil as your first bourbon then more than likely, it's what got you hooked on this great pastime. It's affordable. The taste is chalk full of complexities and nuances. The finish (my favorite part) is long and lingering. The bottle is also very cool looking with a label (which isn't really a label) that makes it stand out from the crowd. The only negative is the cheap cork stopper. I received mine as a gift, but would totally buy again had there not been so many others I'd like to try. That's a good thing though right?
Its very drinkable. I always suggest this to people looking to get into bourbons that I feel would appreciate something lighter. Don't even think about watering this. Of course you aren't going to be a fan if you drink liquid dirt...
love this bourbon. Not too spicy but nice and warm.
Perhaps being used to strong peated scotch makes me a more picky bourbon drinker but I found this to be too watery and not enough flavor or aroma. I bought it for $10 off and I am glad I didn't spend another penny. I will probably just use this for whenever I need bourbon for cocktails (which is never). I should have just followed my gut and bought the Elijah Craig at 94 proof.
