Basil Hayden Dark Rye

Aroma - bright red fruits (strawberries, and apples), honey crackers, pie baking spices, brown sugar and caramel. Balance is decent. Smells like a good fall / dessert-like whiskey. Taste - Wow was that dreadful first sip. Second sip… not much better. This is like drinking a puree of prune juice and mint toothpaste. The port and the rye clash and the port simply body slams the rye notes. Maybe this might be good with some orange bitters and ice? Make it like an old-fashioned without the cherry and sugar… chug it… then do yourself a favor and never look at this bottle again. Place it out on the counter for birthday events and hope and pray that some poor soul decides to try this one out…. Then watch them from afar and video their reaction while they sip this dreadful beverage. Save your money.

Was gifted another bottle of this for my 31st birthday. Still delightful, may play around with some cocktails but it drinks well on the rocks. Still cherry, fig, and a hint of dates. Short finish but unique and appealing.

Love having a smoked rye. Really adds to the flavor.