Basil Hayden Dark Rye is one of the most distinctive and approachable ryes on the market, an artful blend that builds on the high rye recipe that has always set the Basil Hayden brand apart. Part of Beam Suntory's acclaimed Small Batch Collection and bottled by Kentucky Springs Distilling Co., it brings together three distinct liquids in one memorable whiskey. It begins with Kentucky straight rye, providing a firm foundation of spice, rich oak, dried fruit, and subtle molasses undertones. From there, Canadian rye from the award winning Alberta Distillery is layered in, adding depth and a fuller, more viscous mouthfeel than a traditional rye. The final touch is a splash of California port, blended directly into the whiskey rather than used as a barrel finish, lending juicy, ripe fruit notes and a beautiful ruby depth without muddying the underlying wood character. The result is a soft, fruit forward, and genuinely unique sipping whiskey. Bottled at a gentle 80 proof, it is rich yet easygoing, leading with strawberry jam, dark cherry, and plum, supported by rye spice, caramel, light oak, and a hint of dry leather. Its smooth, port kissed sweetness makes it an excellent gateway rye for those moving from sweeter spirits, while remaining a flavorful, fruit driven change of pace for seasoned whiskey drinkers. Equally at home sipped neat, served over a large cube, or stirred into an inventive cocktail like a fruit forward Manhattan, Basil Hayden Dark Rye is an uncommon and rewarding pour. A fan favorite that continues to deliver as a permanent part of the Basil Hayden lineup.
ABV / Proof
| Brand |
Basil Hayden |
| Producer |
Beam Suntory (bottled by Kentucky Springs Distilling Co., Clermont / Frankfort, Kentucky) |
| Category |
Rye Whiskey (Kentucky straight rye blended with Canadian rye whisky and port) |
| Expression |
Dark Rye |
| Blend |
Kentucky straight rye, Canadian rye (Alberta Distillery), California port |
| ABV |
40% |
| Proof |
80 |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Country |
United States |
Tasting Notes
Color: Deep ruby tinged chestnut.
Nose: Strawberry jam and dark cherry entwined with oaky spice, molasses, and ruby port sweetness.
Palate: Rich and fruit driven, with plum, black cherry, and currant up front, supported by rye spice, caramel, and light oak.
Finish: Smooth and port influenced, with dried fruit, sweet caramel, and a touch of dry leather.
FAQ
What is Basil Hayden Dark Rye? It is a blended rye whiskey combining Kentucky straight rye, Canadian rye from the Alberta Distillery, and a touch of California port, blended directly for a rich, fruit forward profile.
Is the port a barrel finish? No. Unlike some port finished whiskeys, the port is blended directly into the whiskey rather than imparted through barrel aging, which gives it a distinctly port forward, fruity character.
What proof is it? It is bottled at 80 proof, or 40 percent ABV, making it soft and approachable.
How should I drink it? It is excellent neat, over a large ice cube, or in cocktails such as a fruit forward Manhattan.
Is it a good rye for beginners? Yes. Its smooth, sweet, port kissed profile makes it a friendly introduction to rye for those moving from sweeter spirits, while offering something unique for seasoned drinkers.
Where can I buy Basil Hayden Dark Rye online? Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
