Basil Hayden's
14 products
Basil Hayden's is a small batch Kentucky straight bourbon produced by Beam Suntory, named after the 18th-century Maryland distiller Meredith Basil Hayden Sr., who helped pioneer the use of high-rye grain bills in Kentucky bourbon. The defining characteristic of the lineup is a high-rye mashbill — roughly twice the rye content of a standard bourbon — producing a spicier, more nuanced flavor profile at an accessible 80 proof.
The Basil Hayden's Lineup
Basil Hayden's Kentucky Straight Bourbon — 80 proof
The flagship expression. Light-bodied and smooth with peppery rye spice, honey, light caramel, and citrus. One of the most approachable bourbons at its price point — ideal for newcomers to the category and for easy neat sipping or cocktails.
Basil Hayden's Dark Rye — 80 proof
A blend of Canadian rye whisky, Kentucky rye whisky, and a touch of blackstrap molasses distillate. The result is a sweeter, richer rye expression with dark fruit, caramel, and light pepper — distinct from the original and one of the most unique expressions in the lineup.
Basil Hayden's Toast — 80 proof
Finished in lightly toasted new American oak barrels (toasted rather than charred), adding a layer of brown sugar, vanilla, and warm baking spice on top of the classic Basil Hayden's profile. A natural pairing with dessert or as a solo sipper.
Basil Hayden's Two By Two — 80 proof
A blend of two Kentucky bourbons and two Canadian rye whiskies, producing a four-grain profile that emphasizes caramel sweetness and subtle spice. Approachable and smooth with greater complexity than the flagship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Basil Hayden's taste like?
The original Basil Hayden's is light and smooth with peppery rye spice, honey, caramel, and citrus. At 80 proof it is one of the most approachable bourbons available — less sweet and oakier than many mass-market bourbons, with the rye grain giving it a drier, more herbaceous character.
Is Basil Hayden's a high-rye bourbon?
Yes — Basil Hayden's uses roughly twice the rye content of a typical bourbon mashbill. This high-rye recipe produces the spicier, more nuanced character the brand is known for, and traces directly to Meredith Basil Hayden Sr.'s original grain bill from the late 1700s.
What is the difference between Basil Hayden's and Dark Rye?
The original is a high-rye Kentucky straight bourbon at 80 proof. Dark Rye blends Canadian rye whisky, Kentucky rye whisky, and blackstrap molasses distillate for a sweeter, darker, fruit-forward profile that is classified as a rye whiskey rather than a bourbon.
Where can I buy Basil Hayden's online?
Wooden Cork carries the full Basil Hayden's lineup — original Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Dark Rye, Toast, and Two By Two — with fast nationwide shipping.
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