A little background

Basil Hayden’s 10-year-old rye whiskey is a tribute to the high rye mash bill used in their classic bourbon. Limited information is available for this release. According to the notes on the bottle, the 10-year aging process creates a slightly spicy yet approachable rye that achieves an elegant and complex profile. This spirit was distilled and bottled by Kentucky Springs Distilling Co. in Clermont/Frankfort, KY. This spirit is bottled at 80 proof and has an MSRP of approximately $60.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Light Amber

Nose

The nose is sweet and spicy. Notes of apple, cinnamon, and vanilla toffee were present. After some time in the glass, a faint bubblegum note began to appear.

Palate

The first sip had a medium viscosity and minimal heat. Oak spice and hints of vanilla were present. The second sip began with a slight bitterness that faded into spice, vanilla, and warehouse aged oak. The third sip was reminiscent of bitter apples and black pepper.

Finish

The finish short-medium with notes of chalk candy, warehouse aged oak, rye spice, pepper, stale cinnamon, and allspice.

In closing

Basil Hayden’s 10-year-old rye had a sweet and spicy nose. Notes of oak, rye spice, and vanilla were present on the palate. The finish was short to medium with notes of chalk candy, pepper, and allspice. This spirit would be approachable for those wishing to dabble in rye whiskey. This rye whiskey would be good as a pour to tune your palate or to use in cocktails.