For a little bit of a change of pace, lets talk about a "wine-adjacent" beverage we had the pleasure of testing this week.

The Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a unique whiskey that has been aged in American oak barrels and finished in red wine casks. This process gives the bourbon a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from other whiskeys on the market.

At 80 proof, the Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a smooth and easy-to-drink whiskey that won't overwhelm your palate with flavor and richness. The nose is dominated by vanilla and raisins, with hints of dried fruit, apricot, and cranberry. On the palate, the whiskey is layered and complex, with notes of chocolate, vanilla, and toasted coconut.

Overall, the Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a must-try for fans of the Basil Hayden brand and those who appreciate unique and complex whiskeys. With its approachable flavor profile and affordable price point, this whiskey is sure to become a staple in any whiskey lover's collection.

History and Distillery

Basil Hayden's bourbon was created in 1796 by Basil Hayden Sr., who moved from the North to the South and used only the grains he had on hand to make his whiskey. This resulted in a bourbon that broke from traditional methods and had a unique flavor profile.

The brand is now owned by Beam Suntory, one of the largest spirits companies in the world. The distillery is located in Clermont, Kentucky, and is known for producing a range of bourbons, including Knob Creek, Booker's, and Baker's.

Freddie Noe, the eighth generation Beam family member, is the current Master Distiller of Basil Hayden's. He has been involved in the bourbon industry since he was a child and has a deep understanding of the craft.

The distillery uses a combination of traditional and modern techniques to produce their bourbons. The grains are sourced from local farmers, and the water comes from limestone-filtered springs on the property. The bourbon is aged in charred oak barrels to give it its distinct flavor.

Overall, Basil Hayden's has a rich history and a strong reputation for producing high-quality bourbons. The brand is owned by a reputable distiller, Beam Suntory, and is led by a knowledgeable Master Distiller, Freddie Noe.

Product Overview

Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a limited-edition annual release from the James B. Beam Distilling family. This bourbon is aged for an undisclosed amount of time in traditional Kentucky straight bourbon barrels before being finished in California red wine casks.

The result is a unique and complex flavor profile that balances the sweet and spicy notes of bourbon with the fruity and tannic characteristics of red wine. This bourbon has a smooth and approachable taste that is perfect for sipping neat or mixing in cocktails.

Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish has an ABV of 40% and is bottled at 80 proof. It comes in a sleek and elegant bottle with the iconic Basil Hayden wax seal on the cork.

This limited-edition bourbon is highly sought after by whiskey enthusiasts and collectors alike. It is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and flavorful bourbon that pushes the boundaries of traditional bourbon-making techniques.

Tasting Notes

Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a limited-edition bourbon that offers a unique taste experience. It has a rich amber color with toasted brown hues, and the aroma is complex and intriguing. On the nose, it has aromas of dried fruit, sweet nectar, and a hint of oak.

The palate is equally impressive, with notes of cherry, spice, and dark fruits. The red wine cask finish gives it a fruity flavor that is well-balanced with the sweetness of the bourbon. The finish is long and smooth, with a hint of vanilla and jam.

Overall, Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a well-rounded bourbon that offers a unique taste experience. It is perfect for sipping on its own or as a base for cocktails. If you are a fan of complex and fruity bourbons, this limited-edition release is definitely worth trying.

Packaging and Appearance

Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish comes in a sleek and elegant bottle with a bright red label that reads "Basil Hayden's" in white letters. The label also features the words "Red Wine Cask Finish" in smaller font, indicating the unique finishing process used in the production of this bourbon.

The bottle is a standard size of 750ml, which is the most common size for bourbon bottles. The shape of the bottle is tall and slender, with a narrow neck and a wide base. It is made of clear glass, allowing the rich amber color of the bourbon to be visible.

In terms of appearance, Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish has a beautiful burnt umber color with glints of burgundy. The red wine casks used in the finishing process clearly influence the base Basil Hayden bourbon, giving it a unique and complex character.

Overall, the packaging and appearance of Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is both eye-catching and sophisticated. It is sure to stand out on any liquor shelf and make a great addition to any bourbon collection.

Pricing and Availability

Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a limited-time release that was first introduced in 2022. The suggested retail price for a 750mL bottle is $60, which is in line with other premium bourbons on the market.

It is important to note that the ABV for this release is 40%, which is relatively low for a bourbon. This may be due to the partial red wine cask finish, which could have mellowed out the flavors and alcohol content of the whiskey.

While the price point may be considered high for some consumers, it is important to keep in mind the unique flavor profile that the red wine cask finish provides. This is a limited release, so availability may vary depending on your location.

At the time of writing, Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is available nationwide in the United States at a suggested price of $59.99 per 750mL bottle. It is also available for purchase online through various retailers.

Overall, the pricing and availability of Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is in line with other premium bourbons on the market. The unique red wine cask finish adds a layer of complexity to the flavor profile, making it a worthwhile investment for bourbon enthusiasts.

Serving Suggestions

Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a versatile whiskey that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, this whiskey has a smooth and easy-to-drink flavor profile that can complement a wide range of flavors.

Neat or On the Rocks

If you want to enjoy the full flavor profile of Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish, we recommend sipping it neat or on the rocks. This allows you to fully appreciate the complex notes of grape skins, cloves, and torched wood that are present in this whiskey.

Cocktails

Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish can also be used to create a variety of delicious cocktails. Its aperitif-style flavor profile makes it a great choice for lighter, refreshing cocktails that are perfect for sipping on a warm summer day.

Here are a few cocktail ideas to get you started:

Basil Hayden Red Wine Sour: Combine 2 oz. Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish, 1 oz. lemon juice, and 1 oz. simple syrup in a shaker. Shake with ice and strain into a glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Red Wine Old Fashioned: Muddle a sugar cube, a few dashes of bitters, and an orange slice in a glass. Add ice and 2 oz. Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish. Stir and garnish with a cherry.

Basil Hayden Sangria: Combine 1 bottle of red wine, 1/2 cup brandy, 1/4 cup triple sec, 1/4 cup lemon juice, and 1/4 cup orange juice in a pitcher. Add sliced fruit and chill for at least 2 hours. Stir in 2 oz. Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish before serving.

Overall, Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a versatile and delicious whiskey that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, this whiskey is sure to impress.

Final Thoughts and Review

Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a unique bourbon that offers an approachable and versatile flavor profile. The red wine casks used in the finishing process add a layer of complexity to the already delicious Basil Hayden bourbon.

The nose is dominated by vanilla and dried fruit with hints of apricot and cranberry. On the palate, there is a thin mouthfeel with sweet vanilla, caramel, dark fruits, oak, and allspice. The overall profile does not blend well, and the flavors from the wine cask fight the whiskey rather than complimenting it.

Despite this, the warm and crisp finish is enjoyable, with a touch of ethanol. It is bottled at 40% ABV, making it a perfect choice for a casual sipper or for cocktails.

Overall, Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a unique bourbon that offers an approachable and versatile flavor profile. While it may not be for everyone, it is worth trying for those who enjoy experimenting with different finishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age of Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish?

Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a non-age statement bourbon, which means it does not have a specific age statement on the label. However, it is likely that the bourbon is aged for at least four years, which is the minimum age requirement for straight bourbon whiskey.

Where can I find Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish near me?

You can check with your local liquor store or online retailers to see if they carry Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish. Availability may vary depending on your location.

What is the difference between Basil Hayden cask strength and regular?

Basil Hayden cask strength is a higher proof version of the regular Basil Hayden bourbon. The regular version is bottled at 80 proof, while the cask strength version is bottled at a higher proof, which can vary from batch to batch.

What is the taste profile of Basil Hayden bourbon?

Basil Hayden bourbon has a spicy and floral aroma, with notes of cinnamon, caramel, and vanilla on the palate. It has a smooth and mellow finish with a hint of pepper.

Is Basil Hayden a Jim Beam bourbon?

Basil Hayden is produced by Beam Suntory, which is the parent company of Jim Beam. However, Basil Hayden is a separate brand from Jim Beam and has its own unique flavor profile.

Is Basil Hayden made by Buffalo Trace?

No, Basil Hayden is not made by Buffalo Trace. It is produced by Beam Suntory, which is a separate company from Buffalo Trace.

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