Basil Hayden is a lighter-bodied, high-rye Kentucky straight bourbon, and it is poured at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. Gentle in body yet bright with spice, it is one of the more approachable and elegant bourbons we list — an easy, refined pour to open or accompany a dinner along Boston Street.

About the Distillery

Basil Hayden is part of the Jim Beam small-batch collection, produced in Clermont, Kentucky. It is named for Basil Hayden Sr., a distiller remembered for favoring a generous proportion of rye in his mash. Where many bourbons lean heavy and sweet, Basil Hayden was conceived as the lighter, more delicate member of the family — spice-forward but soft — which is exactly why it earns a place on the Grappa list.

Style & Mash Bill

This is a high-rye bourbon, built on a mash bill of 63 percent corn, 27 percent rye and 10 percent malted barley — the same spice-rich recipe behind Old Grand-Dad. The notably high rye content gives it a peppery, aromatic edge, while a gentler bottling strength keeps the body light and the spice approachable rather than aggressive. The result is graceful and easy-drinking, with character.

Tasting Notes

Expect a fragrant nose of peppery rye spice, honey and light oak, with hints of dried fruit and mint. The palate is soft and dry, offering gentle spice, vanilla and a touch of tea and pepper, all on a light, elegant frame. The finish is clean and warming — a refined, understated bourbon that drinks beautifully on its own.

What to Pair It With

Its bright spice makes it a lovely partner for our Sicilian meatballs or a charcuterie board, and it stands up nicely beside our American Wagyu steaks. Browse the full dine-in menu to complete the meal.

How It’s Served at Grappa

Basil Hayden is poured neat or on the rocks at $15.

FAQ

Where is it from?

It is produced by Jim Beam in Clermont, Kentucky, as part of its small-batch bourbon collection.

What does it taste like?

It offers peppery rye spice, honey and light oak on the nose, then soft, dry spice, vanilla and a touch of tea on a light, elegant palate with a clean finish.

Is it a high-rye or wheated bourbon?

It is a high-rye bourbon, with 27 percent rye in the mash bill, which gives it its signature peppery, aromatic spice on a notably light body.

When you’re ready, book a table, explore the cocktail & spirits list, and browse the dine-in menu.