Basil Hayden Malted Rye celebrates rye’s subtle, floral qualities

Expanding the rye category, the Basil Hayden Malted Rye opens a bottle to a new conversation within the whiskey space. While some brands focus on robust spices or overly malted tones, this new permanent expression embraces a softness. After than initial pour, whiskey drinkers might have a new appreciation for the carefully crafted spirit.

For some, rye can be a divisive spirit category. While some appreciate the spice tones, others might prefer more caramel notes or a more rounded flavor profile. Experienced drinkers welcome the time to ponder the pour, but others can pass over the spirit for something a little more approachable.

By launching the new Basil Hayden Malted Rye, the distiller looks to push the rye conversation in a different direction. While other brands stay close to their preferred flavor tones, Basil Hayden is pulling back on boldness and celebrating a more delicate approach.

As eighth generation master distiller Freddie Noe commented, “Basil Hayden continues to push boundaries in the tradition of my grandfather Booker Noe. We are continuing to challenge perceptions with our newest permanent expression, Basil Hayden Malted Rye, introducing an entirely new flavor profile within the whiskey category. It delivers a more refined side, an unexpected softness and approachability, creating a new way to experience rye”.

That approachability is key to expanding its audience. No matter the demographics, a liquor cannot be pigeonholed into one group. As seen with its Michelin partnership, Basil Hayden appreciates that a dynamic brand needs to be forward thinking while still appreciating the refinement that earned its reputation.

Opening a bottle of the Basil Hayden Malted Rye is a celebration of the florals. Even before it hits the glass, that aroma is inviting. Still subtle, it invites the drinker to the overall experience. In some ways, it is somewhat alluring.

Upon first sip, the vanilla is apparent, but it never hides the rye. There is a delicate balance between the two. For rye drinkers, the flavor delivers what they want and for non-rye drinkers, it is a good introduction to the particular spirit.

The finish celebrates warm, cozy notes. From the inherent spice to a touch of chocolate, the flavor is still light. Nothing feels overpowering, which makes this spirit an easy drink.

Best served neat, the Basil Hayden Malted Rye could be enjoyed either before or after dinner. But, it is probably best to serve it on its own versus pairing it with a hearty meal. The other flavors might overpower its subtle qualities.

The new Basil Hayden Malted Rye can be found at various liquor stores. The suggested retail price is $59.99.