Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a premium bourbon whiskey produced by Beam Suntory, a leading spirits company. This bourbon is part of the Jim Beam Small Batch Bourbon Collection and is known for its unique flavor profile and high quality.

History

Basil Hayden’s was founded in 1796 by Basil Hayden Sr., a pioneer in the bourbon industry. Hayden was a Catholic priest who emigrated from Ireland to the United States and settled in Nelson County, Kentucky. He began distilling bourbon in the late 18th century and developed a reputation for producing high-quality whiskey. Today, Basil Hayden’s is part of the Beam Suntory portfolio and is still produced in Kentucky.

Production

Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is made from a mash bill of 63% corn, 27% rye, and 10% malted barley. The grains are sourced from local farms in Kentucky, and the whiskey is distilled in small batches using traditional copper stills. The whiskey is then aged for a minimum of 8 years in new American oak barrels, which are stored in a temperature-controlled warehouse to ensure consistent aging.

Flavor Profile

The flavor profile of Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is complex and nuanced, with notes of:

• Caramel: Rich and indulgent, with a hint of sweetness.
• Vanilla: Smooth and creamy, with a hint of oak.
• Spice: A subtle hint of spice, particularly cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Fruit: Hints of apple, cherry, and citrus, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
• Oak: A subtle background of oak flavor, with notes of vanilla and caramel.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey presents a rich and complex aroma, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and fruit. On the palate, the whiskey is full-bodied and smooth, with a balanced flavor profile. The finish is long and satisfying, with a hint of spice and complexity.

Awards and Accolades

Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey has received numerous awards and accolades, including:

• Double Gold Medal: San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2020)
• 94, Exceptional: Beverage Testing Institute (2020)
• Best Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey: International Whisky Competition (2019)

Packaging

Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is packaged in a premium glass bottle, featuring a unique label designed by Beam Suntory. The bottle is presented in a luxurious gift box, making it a special and collectible release.

Availability

Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is widely available in the United States and in select international markets. The bourbon is priced around $60-$70 per 750ml bottle, making it a premium and accessible option for bourbon enthusiasts.

Variations

Beam Suntory offers several other premium whiskeys under the Basil Hayden’s brand, including:

• Basil Hayden’s Dark Rye: A rye whiskey aged for a minimum of 4 years and bottled at 90 proof.
• Basil Hayden’s Two by Two Rye: A rye whiskey aged for a minimum of 4 years and bottled at 90 proof, with a unique blend of two different rye recipes.
• Basil Hayden’s 10 Year Old Bourbon: A bourbon whiskey aged for a minimum of 10 years and bottled at 90 proof.

In conclusion, Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a premium and complex bourbon whiskey that offers a nuanced flavor profile. With its unique mash bill and careful aging process, it’s a great option for bourbon enthusiasts and connoisseurs looking for a high-quality and distinctive whiskey.