Basil Hayden Malted Rye is a refined, gently spiced rye whiskey, and it is poured at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. Where many ryes lead with sharp pepper, this one is softer and more floral — an elegant, approachable pour to open the evening or to linger over after dinner along Boston Street.
About the Distillery
Basil Hayden is part of the celebrated James B. Beam small-batch family, produced in Clermont, Kentucky. The name honors Basil Hayden Sr., a distiller long associated with a generous hand of rye in the mash. This expression takes that heritage in a quieter, more graceful direction, exploring the gentler side of the grain rather than its bite — exactly the kind of understated character that earns a place on the Grappa list.
Style & Mash Bill
This is an all-malted-rye whiskey, built entirely on rye grain that has been malted — allowed to germinate before drying — in the manner a Scotch distillery would treat its barley. That malting softens and rounds the spirit, drawing out delicate sweet and floral tones in place of rye’s usual peppery edge. The result is a mellow, aromatic and notably elegant style of American rye.
Tasting Notes
Expect a fragrant, floral nose with soft notes of toasted grain, vanilla and gentle baking spice. The palate is smooth and rounded, offering warm rye spice woven with honeyed sweetness, a touch of toasted oak and a lightly creamy texture. The finish is warm, clean and spice-tinged — refined and easy to enjoy on its own.
What to Pair It With
Its mellow spice makes it a lovely partner for our Sicilian meatballs or a charcuterie board, and it stands up gracefully beside our American Wagyu steaks. Browse the full dine-in menu to round out the meal.
How It’s Served at Grappa
Basil Hayden Malted Rye is poured neat or on the rocks at $16.
FAQ
Where is it from?
It is produced by the James B. Beam distillery in Clermont, Kentucky, as part of the Basil Hayden small-batch family.
What does it taste like?
It is floral and mellow, with toasted grain, vanilla and gentle baking spice on the nose, then rounded rye spice, honeyed sweetness and a touch of oak on a smooth, lightly creamy palate.
What makes a malted rye different?
The rye grain is malted before distilling, much as a Scotch distillery malts its barley, which softens the spirit and brings out delicate sweet and floral notes rather than rye’s usual sharp pepper.
When you’re ready, book a table, explore the cocktail & spirits list, and browse the dine-in menu.
