Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve Bourbon Whiskey – 80 Proof (40% ABV) | 750ml

Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve is a limited-edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey that brings together Basil Hayden’s signature high-rye bourbon with the distinctive character of French Cognac casks. The bourbon is finished in specially selected French oak casks that previously held Cognac for 20–25 years, adding layers of dried fruit, caramel, vanilla, and oak while maintaining the brand’s light and approachable style.

Bottled at 80 proof, this release offers a refined combination of Kentucky bourbon craftsmanship and French Cognac character. Its rich amber appearance leads into aromas of dried fruit, charred oak, and honey, followed by flavors of vanilla, caramel, apricot, raisin, and oak.

Key Details

Spirit Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Brand: Basil Hayden
Expression: Cognac Cask Reserve
Mash Bill: High-Rye Bourbon
Origin: Kentucky, USA
Producer: James B. Beam Distilling Co.
Cask Finish: French Cognac Casks
Cognac Cask History: Previously held Cognac for 20–25 years
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV / 80 Proof
Bottle Size: 750ml
Style: Limited Edition Bourbon

Process & Production

Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve begins with the brand’s signature high-rye bourbon. After its initial maturation in traditional new charred American oak, the bourbon receives a secondary finishing period in specially selected French oak casks that previously held Cognac.

The Cognac casks had held Cognac exclusively for 20–25 years, allowing the finishing process to contribute additional layers of dried fruit, caramel, vanilla, oak, and subtle spice to the bourbon’s existing high-rye character.

Appearance

Rich amber in color, reflecting the bourbon’s oak maturation and Cognac cask finishing.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Dried fruit, charred oak, and honey create a warm and inviting aroma.

Palate: Vanilla and caramel combine with oak, apricot, and raisin. The Cognac cask finish adds a layer of fruit-forward richness while the high-rye bourbon contributes subtle spice.

Finish: Pleasant and lingering, with charred oak and dried fruit carrying through the finish.

What Makes It Special

Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve is a limited-edition release that explores the combination of American bourbon and French Cognac traditions. Its high-rye bourbon base provides the familiar Basil Hayden character, while the French Cognac cask finish adds additional fruit, sweetness, oak, and complexity.

The use of French Cognac casks that previously held Cognac for 20–25 years gives this release a distinctive finishing influence while preserving the approachable character associated with Basil Hayden.

How to Enjoy

Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve can be enjoyed neat or over a large ice cube to appreciate its dried fruit, caramel, vanilla, and oak character.

It also works well in classic whiskey cocktails, including:

• Old Fashioned
• Manhattan
• Bourbon Sour
• Basil Hayden 75

The brand specifically highlights the Basil Hayden 75 with Cognac Cask Reserve, pairing the bourbon’s caramel and dried-fruit character with lemon and sparkling wine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve?
It is a limited-edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey from Basil Hayden that is finished in specially selected French Cognac casks.

What proof is Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve?
It is bottled at 80 Proof, or 40% ABV.

What size is the bottle?
This expression is bottled in a 750ml format.

What type of casks are used for the finish?
The bourbon is finished in specially selected French oak casks that previously held Cognac exclusively for 20–25 years.

What does the Cognac cask finish add?
The finishing process adds layers of dried fruit, caramel, vanilla, oak, and subtle spice to the high-rye bourbon.

Is Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve a limited edition?
Yes. Basil Hayden identifies Cognac Cask Reserve as a limited-edition release.

Brand Story

Basil Hayden was created around a high-rye Kentucky bourbon style known for combining spice with a lighter, approachable character. The brand traces its modern bourbon identity to Booker Noe, who created Basil Hayden as a whiskey that was spicy yet smooth, rich yet sweet.

Cognac Cask Reserve extends that tradition by taking Basil Hayden’s signature high-rye bourbon and finishing it in French Cognac casks. The result combines Kentucky bourbon craftsmanship with French Cognac influence while maintaining the brand’s refined and approachable style.