An 8 year old small batch bourbon. This was named for Jim Beam's historic Master Distiller, Basil Hayden Sr who, in 1796, created a bourbon with a mashbill whose base was of corn, with a mix of small grains for added spice.

Nose: Crisp, fresh. Spiced. Rooty, floral. Solid hit of rye.

Palate: Gentle and rounded. Poised rye spice tingling through notes of winter berries.

Finish: Seed cake, vanilla cream, more berries.

Recipe

Basil Hayden`s Bourbon Shallot Vinaigrette 1/3 cup chopped shallots or onion 1/3 cup olive oil, divided 1/2 cup plus 1 Tbs. Basil Hayden`s Bourbon Whiskey, divided 1 Tbs. flat leaf parsley, chopped 1 tsp. fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1/4 tsp. dried basil leaves) 1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or 1/4 tsp. dried thyme leaves) 3 1/2 cups sifted flour 3 Tbs. cider vinegar 1/4 tsp granulated sugar salt and pepper to taste COOK SHALLOTS OVER medium-high heat in 1 Tbs. oil in a small saucepan for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Add 1/2 cup Basil Hayden`s. Cook uncovered until mixture is reduced to a glaze, about 5 minutes. Add parsley, basil and thyme. Cook 12 minutes. Cool to room temperature. Add remaining oil, vinegar, Basil Hayden`s, sugar and salt and pepper. Mix well. Chill at least 2 hours.