Basil Hayden's Malted Rye Whiskey
Basil Hayden's Malted Rye Whiskey is the refined side of rye — a 750mL bottle at 80 proof built on a 100% malted rye mash bill, a first for the Jim Beam Small Batch family. Malting the grain before distillation softens rye's peppery edge into something floral, sweet and unexpectedly gentle, with cinnamon, vanilla and toasted rye bread at the core. It's available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 40% (80 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Mash bill: 100% malted rye
- Category: Kentucky Straight Rye Malt Whiskey
- Release: permanent expression, launched September 2023; crafted by eighth-generation master distiller Freddie Noe
- Origin: Kentucky
Malting Changes Everything
American rye whiskey has traditionally been distilled from unmalted rye grain — the source of its signature pepper-and-dill bite. Malting, the brewer's trick of germinating the grain before use, transforms that profile: the enzymes soften the spice and draw out delicate floral, sweet and bready notes. Basil Hayden — the Jim Beam small-batch brand built on its higher-rye bourbon — was the natural home for the experiment, and Freddie Noe went all in with a 100% malted rye mash bill. Explore more Basil Hayden's, browse the store's rye whiskey shelf, or compare with the rest of the small-batch bourbon lineup.
Tasting Notes
Light amber. The aroma is delicately floral — dill, oak and caramel with subtle spice. The palate brings cinnamon, sweet vanilla and toasted rye bread, soft and rounded rather than sharp. The finish is light and warming, with delicate notes of chocolate and warm spice.
How to Enjoy
The distillery recommends it neat, and the 80 proof makes that easy. It also makes a notably elegant Manhattan, where the softened spice lets the vermouth speak instead of fighting it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is malted rye whiskey?
Whiskey distilled from malted rye grain — malting mellows rye's sharp pepper into softer, sweeter, more bread-forward flavors. Basil Hayden's version is 100% malted rye.
Is Basil Hayden Malted Rye the same as Dark Rye?
No. Dark Rye blends Kentucky rye with Canadian rye and port; Malted Rye is a single 100% malted rye mash bill with no blending or finishing.
What proof is Basil Hayden's Malted Rye?
80 proof (40% ABV).
Rye, refined — pick up Basil Hayden's Malted Rye Whiskey online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.