What we’re drinking: Basil Hayden Toast, a new and permanent edition to the whiskey brand’s line-up (and their first new permanent release since 2017)
Where it’s from: While usually rockin’ a bit more rye in their mash bill, Basil Hayden’s is still the most approachable small-batch whiskey in Beam Suntory’s portfolio. Note the “usually” here, as that’s important.
Why we’re drinking this: “I’m really picking up the rye in this,” I said two weeks ago when I tasted a sneak peek of Basil Hayden Toast, the creation of eighth-generation distiller Freddie Noe.
Oops. The Toast gets its name from a secondary toasted barrel finish — which isn’t necessarily a new thing in the world of brown spirits. But the less publicized and far most interesting aspect of the new whiskey is that the mash bill has quite a bit of brown rice in lieu of rye.
“That imparts a hint of sweetness and a touch less spice,” as Tim Heuisler, Beam Suntory American Whiskey Ambassador, tells us. “A portion of Basil Hayden Toast is aged and finished in charred barrels; however, the bourbon is unique in that a secondary level-one char toasted barrel finish is also used in the process.”
Freddie Noe, the distiller, had been experimenting with brown rice bourbon before, and Jim Beam did release a Brown Rice Bourbon years ago as part of its Signature Craft line, but this is the first time it’s been featured in a Basil Hayden expression.
How it tastes: At 80 proof, this isn’t going to set your mouth on fire. Like most Basil Hayden, this is approachable and gentle.
Toasted grains and oak on the nose, a surprising initial spiciness on the mouth with some caramel notes, and a bit of vanilla on the (dry) finish. It’s a little sweet and a bit oaky — and oddly, if you like that rye element in Basil Hayden, you’re not gonna miss it here.
Overall, this seems ideal for cocktails, particularly ones where you want to shine a light on the other ingredients and not just get a whiskey kick.
Fun fact: If you know the Basil Hayden packaging (mainly that big paper label), Toast marks the beginning of a change across the line. The monogrammed belt is more forward in the design, a nod to the metal hoops that encircle bourbon barrels.
Where to buy it: Starting this week Basil Hayden Toast is available nationwide for $49.99.
More Like This
Every Thursday, our resident experts see to it that you’re up to date on the latest from the world of drinks. Trend reports, bottle reviews, cocktail recipes and more. Sign up for THE SPILL now.
