Bourbon

Whiskey Review: Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish

We review Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish, a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey partially finished in former red wine casks.

OVERALL RATING

7
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Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish review

Tasting Notes

About:

40% ABV, 80 proof. Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey partially finished in wine casks. 750mL ~$60.
Appearance:
Burnt umber with glints of burgundy.
Nose:
Loads of vanilla bean ice cream make me feel like I’ve walked into Baskin Robbins. The red wine casks clearly influence the base Basil Hayden bourbon. There is a mix of dried fruit with apricot and cranberry. Aside from the vanilla, raisins dominate the nose.
Palate:


Finish:
Comments:
Like my whiskey, I am particular about my red wine. I would like to know what specific red wine casks were used and from which Californian vineyard. Transparency in the whiskey industry is growing, but we are not yet there all the way. The partial blending is successful, but the palate is more subdued than the nose. I would love to see what a full finish of the red wine casks has on the signature Basil Hayden bourbon as the raisin and stone fruits are welcome.rnrnWhile this release is not for me, up the proof to 96, as it is definitely for my mother who is a red wine drinker just getting into bourbons.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Courtney Kristjana

Courtney Kristjana is a leading whiskey taster in the United States. Inspired by an article on Heather Greene, she left her career in Gerontology to pursue her passion for whiskey. Currently studying to become a Master of Scotch, Courtney dreams of one day being nominated for the Keepers of the Quaich. Her reviews may be as strong as the peat in her scotch, but she guarantees honesty, integrity, and an open mind.

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