Basil Hayden Dark Rye is a smooth, fruit-laced rye whiskey poured at Grappa in Queen Anne, Seattle, an unconventional and elegant pour built around a touch of California port. It is approachable and richly flavored, a refined choice for guests who enjoy a softer, more luxurious style of rye.

About the Distillery

Basil Hayden is a celebrated brand produced by Jim Beam in Clermont, Kentucky, named for the storied 18th-century Kentucky distiller. The line is known for its graceful, easygoing approach to whiskey, favoring balance and drinkability. Dark Rye is one of its most distinctive expressions, a creative blend that reaches beyond a single grain or country to build something layered and memorable.

Style & Mash Bill

Dark Rye is, at heart, a rye whiskey, blending Kentucky straight rye with Canadian rye and then enriched with a touch of California port. The Kentucky rye lends a firm base of spice, oak and dried fruit, while the Canadian rye deepens the dark-fruit character and adds a more substantial, viscous mouthfeel. The port is poured into the blend, contributing ripe-fruit sweetness and the whiskey’s signature ruby hue.

Tasting Notes

Basil Hayden Dark Rye is soft and supple, with notes of dried fruit, plum and molasses layered over rye spice, rich oak and a touch of dark chocolate. The port adds a juicy, ripe-fruit lift and a velvety texture, making the palate smooth and rounded. The finish is gentle, fruity and warming, with the spice woven quietly through.

What to Pair It With

Its dark-fruit richness makes for indulgent pairings. Enjoy it with our Sicilian Meatballs for a warm, savory match, or with a selection from the Charcuterie Board. For dessert, it is a natural with our Flourless Chocolate Cake. Browse the full dine-in menu for more pairings.

How It’s Served at Grappa

We pour Basil Hayden Dark Rye neat or on the rocks at $16, the best way to enjoy its smooth, port-kissed character.

FAQ

Where is it from?

Basil Hayden Dark Rye is produced by Jim Beam in Clermont, Kentucky, blending Kentucky and Canadian rye with a touch of California port.

What does it taste like?

It tastes of dried fruit, plum and molasses over rye spice and rich oak, with a juicy, port-driven sweetness and a smooth, velvety texture.

Is it a spicy rye?

It has rye spice, but the Canadian rye and a touch of California port make it softer, fruitier and more supple than a typical spicy rye.

When you are ready to join us, book a table, browse the cocktail & spirits list, and the dine-in menu.