Basil Hayden's Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Basil Hayden's Bourbon Whiskey is a true testament to the rich heritage of bourbon-making, with roots dating back to 1796. Meticulously crafted and bottled at 80 proof with an ABV of 40%, this bourbon is known for its distinctive higher rye content. This unique composition results in a captivatingly spicy and sweet character that sets Basil Hayden apart in the world of whiskey. The marriage of rye's spiciness and corn's smoothness creates a truly distinctive bourbon experience that has been cherished for generations. Its lightness and approachability make Basil Hayden an excellent choice for mixing in cocktails, whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic concoctions like the Manhattan or Old Fashioned. It also lends itself beautifully to refreshing options such as the Mint Julep or Bourbon Mary. As you savor Basil Hayden, you'll be greeted by an aromatic bouquet characterized by spicy, peppery notes and a light, honey-toned body with a gentle bite. Experience the legacy of Basil Hayden in each sip, where history meets modern enjoyment in a timeless bourbon.
Tasting Notes
Shipping
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Manufacturing
Our products are manufactured both locally and globally. We carefully select our manufacturing partners to ensure our products are high quality and a fair value.
Why Gifted Pour recommends it
This is a bourbon for the friend who likes whiskey to feel welcoming rather than fiery. Bottled at 80 proof from a corn-dominant mash bill with a notably high rye content, it opens with spicy, peppery aromas over a light, honey-toned body. It then settles into a sweet-and-spicy palate where rye spice meets the smoothness of corn, finishing with a gentle bite. That lighter, approachable character makes it a thoughtful pick for a housewarming, a new colleague's welcome, or a host who loves to mix. It is equally at home poured neat, over ice, or stirred into a Manhattan or Old Fashioned. Made in Kentucky at the Jim Beam Distillery and matured in new charred oak, it carries roots the brand traces back to 1796, which gives the gift a little story to tell. Notes of vanilla, caramel and baking spice round it out, so a recipient newer to bourbon will find an easy way in, while a seasoned sipper will appreciate the rye-forward balance.
Pairs well with
- Housewarming gift for hosts — Its light, approachable sweet-and-spicy profile works neat or in a Manhattan, so new homeowners can pour it however their guests prefer.
- Honey-glazed ham — The bourbon's honey-toned body and black pepper spice echo a sweet glaze while cutting through the richness of the meat.
- Father's Day Manhattan night — Its rye spice and caramel notes stand up to sweet vermouth and aromatic bitters, making a classic, well-balanced Manhattan to share with Dad.
Questions about this bottle
What does Basil Hayden's Bourbon taste like?
Expect spicy, peppery aromas over a light, honey-toned body. On the palate, the higher rye content brings a distinctive spiciness that plays against the smoothness of corn for a sweet-and-spicy balance, with hints of vanilla, caramel, oak and baking spice, and a gentle bite on the finish.
How strong is it?
It is bottled at 80 proof, which is 40% ABV. That lighter strength is part of why it comes across as approachable, whether sipped neat, served over ice or mixed into cocktails.
What is it made from?
It is a Kentucky straight bourbon made at the Jim Beam Distillery from a corn-dominant mash bill with a high rye content, and it is matured in new charred oak. The bottle does not carry an age statement.
What is the best way to drink it?
Enjoy it neat in a whiskey glass, or over ice to slightly soften its intensity. It also suits classic cocktails: a Manhattan with sweet vermouth and aromatic bitters, an Old Fashioned, a Mint Julep or a Bourbon Mary.