BASIL HAYDEN’S
Region: Kentucky, USA
Distiller: Jim Beam
Mashbill: 63% Corn, 27% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Cask: New charred oak
Age: NAS
ABV: 40%
Price: $53
EYE
Polished brass
NOSE
The aroma is light and fruity with notes of spice, citrus, dark sweets and vanilla. Some weak notes of wood, blackberry licorice, new leather and root beer popsicles add a bit of dimension and it makes me wonder what this would smell like at a higher proof. Yes I know OGD 114 is technically a higher proof version, but I mean a higher proof of what this is supposed to be: a “small batch” of “cherry barrels” blended together.
PALATE
Oak, caramel, vanilla and baking spices dominate the palate, but don’t achieve the richness they should. A bit of minerality, leather and pepper pop up towards the end and leave me wanting more substance. It’s nice, but like the nose, it’s light.
FINISH
Short and oaky with light notes of leather, pepper and dark sweets.
BALANCE, BODY & FEEL
An ok balance, medium body and a soft unassuming texture.
-The Whiskey Jug