Basil Hayden

Basil Hayden is a distinctive Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey that stands out in the Jim Beam portfolio for its approachable, high-rye style and refined, lighter-bodied profile. Part of the Beam “Small Batch Collection,” Basil Hayden is known for delivering gentle complexity that appeals to both seasoned bourbon drinkers and those new to American whiskey.

A Tribute to a Pioneering Distiller

The brand is named after Meredith Basil Hayden Sr., a Maryland-born distiller who moved to Kentucky in the late 18th century. Hayden was notable for incorporating a higher percentage of rye grain into his bourbon mash bill, a practice that gave his whiskey a spicier, more aromatic character compared to his contemporaries. This tradition lives on in the modern Basil Hayden recipe.

Production and Mash Bill

Basil Hayden is produced at the Jim Beam Distillery in Clermont, Kentucky, under the stewardship of Beam Suntory. Like all bourbons, it is made from at least 51% corn, but Basil Hayden’s mash bill includes a significantly higher proportion of rye than standard Beam bourbons, resulting in a more peppery and herbal flavour.

The whiskey is:
• Distilled in column stills for a clean, consistent spirit.
• Aged in new, charred American oak barrels, typically for around 6–8 years (though no age statement appears on most releases).
• Bottled at a lower proof — 40% ABV (80 proof) — than many bourbons, making it particularly smooth and easy-drinking.

The lower proof and high-rye recipe make it a versatile choice, enjoyable neat, with ice, or in classic whiskey cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour.

Position in the Bourbon World

Basil Hayden occupies a unique niche in the bourbon market: it’s part of the same Small Batch Collection as Knob Creek, Booker’s, and Baker’s, but offers a gentler, more accessible drinking experience. It’s an ideal stepping stone for those exploring higher-rye bourbons, and its flavour balance also appeals to fans of rye whiskey looking for something smoother.

Our Selection

Our Basil Hayden range includes the classic high-rye bourbon, innovative expressions like Dark Rye and Toast, and special limited editions. Whether you’re new to bourbon or a seasoned drinker seeking something refined and versatile, Basil Hayden offers a gateway into Kentucky whiskey tradition with a lighter, spice-forward touch.