Basil Hayden’s launches rye and Bourbon blend

by Melita Kiely

Beam Suntory-owned Basil Hayden’s Bourbon has released a limited edition blend, called Basil Hayden’s Two by Two Rye.

Basil Hayden’s Two by Two Rye combines two Kentucky straight rye whiskeys – a five-year-old and a seven-year-old “high rye” Kentucky straight rye – plus two Kentucky straight Bourbons, aged for six and 13 years. Bottled at 40% abv, Basil Hayden’s Two by Two Rye is available throughout the US at an RRP of US$49.99 per 750ml bottle. The whiskey is described as having aromas of caramel and brown sugar, leading to rye and brown sweets with an “ample woody accent” on the palate. The finish is said to deliver a “pleasant, long lingering warmth”. Rob Mason, vice president marketing, whiskey at Beam Suntory, said: “Basil Hayden’s has always been known for its distinctive spicy finish, so innovating in the rye category continues to be an exciting venture for the brand, especially as interest in the category grows exponentially. “While Basil Hayden’s Two by Two Rye upholds our trademark spice and approachability, this blend also challenges the status quo and encourages fans to discover the versatility of rye.”