Basil Hayden’s New Limited Expression Combines Kentucky Bourbon Craftsmanship with French Cognac Character

If you’ve been lucky enough to hit the Bourbon Trail, you’ve more than likely visited Basil Hayden at the James B. Beam Distilling Co. in Claremont, Kentucky. It’s undoubtedly a rite of passage when you’re there for the best bourbon in the world. This week, Basil Hayden ventured into an area no one expected but wants to try: Basil Hayden has just released a limited-edition cognac expression that stays true to the signature Basil Hayden profile bourbon lovers have come to love.

The renowned bourbon company is introducing the Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve, the brand’s first new liquid in years. Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve is a refined new expression that explores the influence of French cognac casks to create an unexpected, beautifully balanced flavor experience. According to Basil Hayden, the Cognac Cask Reserve takes the brand’s signature high-rye, 80-proof bourbon and finishes it in specially selected French Cognac casks. The process brings rich layers of dried fruit, caramel, vanilla, subtle spice, and oak to Basil Hayden’s profile.

According to Basil Hayden, the new release is the brand’s aim to bring approachable liquid through globally inspired flavors. The Cognac Cask Reserve offers drinkers “a passport to new tastes while staying true to the signature Basil Hayden profile consumers know and love.”

The Cognac Cask Reserve embodies “something familiar made new.” The spirit is “finished in specially selected French oak casks that previously held Cognac exclusively for 20-25 years, bringing decades of Cognac character to Basil Hayden’s signature light, bright, and approachable flavor profile while imparting layers of elegant complexity.

Here’s what to expect

• Color: Rich Amber
• Aroma: Dried fruit, charred oak, honey
• Taste: Vanilla, caramel, oak, apricot, raisin
• Finish: A pleasant charred oak finish elevated with notes of dried fruit
• Price: $49.99
• ABV: 40%

“Basil Hayden Cognac Cask reflects our commitment to honoring the brand’s original bourbon while continuing to explore what’s possible within the category,” says Freddie Noe, an 8th-generation master distiller at the James B. Beam Distilling Co. “This expression was thoughtfully crafted to deliver a distinctive yet approachable experience. French Cognac casks let us take our Basil Hayden signature profile that people know and love and put a twist on it, and we’re incredibly proud to share it with bourbon and cognac drinkers alike.”