Basil Hayden’s Bourbon moves into straight rye

Beam Suntory has released the first ever brand extension of Basil Hayden’s Bourbon – a rye whiskey described as a “natural progression for the brand”.

Basil Hayden’s Rye Whiskey is “inspired” by the brand’s core expression, which has a high rye mash bill and uses twice as much rye as traditional Bourbons, creating a spicy finish.

The new expression is a limited edition Kentucky straight rye whiskey said to offer a “deepened and distinctive taste” due to its use of re-barreled rye.

Basil Hayden’s re-barreled rye begins life as a four-year-old traditional rye whiskey that has been poured out of its barrels and aged for an additional seven years in newly charred quarter cask oak barrels.

The brand blends “just a touch” of this liquid with Kentucky straight rye whiskey to create the final expression. The process of re-barrelling “allows more interaction between the whiskey and the wood, resulting in a deeper, spicier flavour”, according to Basil Hayden’s.

Rob Mason, vice president of Bourbon at Beam Suntory, said: “The spicy character of rye has always been a signature part of what makes Basil Hayden’s special, so creating a rye whiskey was a natural fit.

“This limited edition release gives our fans a chance to experience everything they love about Basil Hayden’s Bourbon – its spicy character, smoothness and approachable nature – in an interesting rye whiskey expression.”

Bottled at 80 proof (40% abv), Basil Hayden’s Rye Whiskey is now available at an RRP of US$44.99 for a 750ml bottle.

In November last year, brand owner Beam Suntory announced plans to invest US$1 billion in expanding its Bourbon production over the next five years.