There is a lot to like about Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish on paper. At 40% ABV, 80 proof and $60, let us see if it lives up to expectations.
Nose
Loads of vanilla bean ice cream make me feel like Ive 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. 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.
Palate
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful 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.
Finish
40% ABV, 80 proof. Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey partially finished in wine casks. 750mL ~$60.
The Bottom Line
Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish is a perfectly respectable whiskey that does what it sets out to do. At $60, the value is reasonable — it will not blow your mind, but it will not disappoint you either. A reliable choice.
