Basil Hayden's Caribbean Reserve Rye (Discontinued)

I, like most I assume, grabbed this hoping that it would be a cheaper version of Angel's Envy Rye finished in Rum barrels. The category is limited, but steadily expanding. The proof I'd say is by far the largest let down. Almost no rye comes through. I don't know how wet the rum barrels are, but it's clear that unlike Angel's Envy Rye (which also isn't straight!), they add a lot more rum/rum flavoring. The maple syrup is too strong, and almost unbearable. Nose: straight brown sugar and vanilla, really nothing else Palate: Just maple syrup, but add some packs of splenda and you're there. Sickeningly sweet, just like Angel's envy rye, but with no body and spice to give depth or back it up. Finish: Really just brown sugar and a little vanilla. Angel's envy rye is definitely expensive, but if this is the alternative then the added price is worth it. Neither are a must -buy, but angel's envy rye is worth the extra money. I had to use this one up in Dark n' Stormy cocktails, but at 80 proof it didn't take long. More spice, and less sweet is needed with this one. Super disappointing finish, likely due to the proof and mash bill. Hard pass.

Vanilla, sweeter than most ryes I’ve tried. Softer like the bourbon

Likely would have been a higher score if it wasn’t sampled with AE Caribbean. I don’t get much rye.

Slightly light on flavor

Similar to Dark Rye with Maple Syrup finish