Basil Hayden's Toast is crafted by Beam Suntory, a renowned spirits company with a rich history in the production of exceptional whiskies. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring the unique offerings from Beam Suntory, and Basil Hayden's Toast is no exception.
Beam Suntory is known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, and their expertise is evident in every sip of Basil Hayden's Toast. This release marks the fourth permanent addition to the Basil Hayden's brand line, joining the ranks of the original Basil Hayden's Bourbon, the 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon, and the Dark Rye Whiskey.
Personally, I have had the opportunity to taste and appreciate the distinct characteristics of each of these Basil Hayden's expressions. The standard Basil Hayden's Bourbon offers a smooth and approachable flavor profile, with notes of spice and a hint of sweetness. The 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon, on the other hand, presents a more mature and complex taste, with deeper oak flavors and a longer finish.
The Dark Rye Whiskey adds a unique twist to the Basil Hayden's lineup, incorporating a blend of rye, malted barley, and corn for a bold and robust flavor experience. This expression showcases the versatility of the brand and demonstrates Beam Suntory's commitment to innovation.
Now, let's dive into the star of the show: Basil Hayden's Toast. This expression, like its siblings, is carefully crafted to deliver a memorable drinking experience. Basil Hayden's Toast is distinguished by its unique production process, which involves a unique aging technique called “extra aging.”
During this extra aging process, the bourbon is matured in newly charred oak barrels, just like the other expressions in the Basil Hayden's range. However, what sets Basil Hayden's Toast apart is the utilization of toasted barrels during the aging process. This technique imparts additional layers of complexity and flavor to the bourbon, resulting in a truly distinctive and enjoyable drinking experience.
I had the pleasure of trying Basil Hayden's Toast during a tasting event, and I was immediately captivated by its aroma. The nose offered a delightful blend of caramel and vanilla, with hints of toasted oak and a subtle spice. It was inviting and intriguing, setting the stage for what was to come.
Upon taking my first sip, I was greeted with a smooth and velvety texture that coated my palate. The flavors danced across my taste buds, revealing a harmonious combination of sweet caramel, warm baking spices, and a gentle oakiness. There was a subtle fruitiness that added a touch of brightness to the overall profile, creating a well-rounded and balanced bourbon.
One aspect that stood out to me was the lingering finish. The flavors of Basil Hayden's Toast seemed to evolve and develop even after the last sip. The toasted oak notes became more pronounced, leaving a pleasant and slightly smoky aftertaste that invited me to take another sip.
Basil Hayden's Toast is a testament to the craftsmanship and innovation of Beam Suntory. With its unique aging process and expert blending, this expression offers a truly delightful and memorable drinking experience. Whether enjoyed neat or in a cocktail, Basil Hayden's Toast is a worthy addition to any whiskey enthusiast's collection.