Before we taste, let’s take a long look at Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey because this bourbon’s in an unusually good looking bottle. “Artfully aged”, the bottle says, and I must add, artfully dressed. The bottle--tall, slender and long-necked--like models everywhere, would look great in anything. But draped in an understated brown paper pinafore cinched with a riveted copper belt and silver-toned bH buckle, it may leave many bourbon enthusiasts struggling to take their eyes off the bottle long enough to pour a dram. La Bourbonesse forced herself, thank goodness, and here’s the verdict: This golden-hued 80 proof bourbon is not only good looking. It’s very, smooth, light and tasty.
Basil Hayden, Sr. started distilling his bourbon back in 1796 in Kentucky. Basil Hayden’s Bourbon is part of the Jim Beam Small Batch family alongside siblings Booker’s, Knob Creek and Bakers, but unlike these last three bourbons, its mashbill is high in rye.
Basil Hayden’s is not heavy or complex, though the rye lends it a pronounced spiciness. However, it tastes like the spice has been to charm school: it’s smoothed out so that the cinnamon, dried fruit and caramel flavors come through gently and well behaved, ideal for sipping neat, or for mixing in cocktails.
Anyone would be tempted to give their bottle of Basil Hayden’s pride of place on their bourbon shelf, because it’s just too attractive and distinguished to hide. But don’t forget: it’s just as beautiful and understated within the bottle as without. If you don’t like to share, hide it on the back shelf.
Barbara Chapman, La Bourbonessa
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