From Sparrow’s rye list, Basil Hayden Dark Rye is one of the more unusual and crowd-pleasing pours we keep, a softer, fruit-forward take on rye whiskey ($15 by the pour, or $22.50 for a larger pour).
About Basil Hayden Dark Rye
Basil Hayden Dark Rye is a unique blend of Kentucky Straight Rye, Canadian Rye, and a touch of California Port. Basil Hayden is part of the Jim Beam Small Batch Collection out of Clermont, Kentucky, and this expression takes the brand’s signature approachability in a different direction. Blending across two countries of rye and finishing with port is an unconventional move, and it gives this whiskey a rounder, more fruit-driven character than a traditional straight rye.
Tasting Notes
The menu sums it up well: the flavors are spicy but more fruit driven than typical rye whiskies. The port influence brings a dark-fruit sweetness and a smooth, mellow body, while the rye keeps a gentle backbone of baking-spice warmth. The result is approachable and easy to enjoy, a good choice if you find some ryes too sharp or dry.
What to Pair It With
Its fruit-forward, mellow side makes it a versatile sipper, lovely neat, over a large cube, or in a slightly sweeter Manhattan. From the Sparrow dinner menu, try it with the American Wagyu steaks, the Sparrow-Smoked Rack, or the Truffle Deviled Eggs. It is a natural after-dinner pour in our 21+ lounge, and our daily happy hour runs 3 to 5 PM with $3 off well drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Basil Hayden Dark Rye made from?
It is a blend of Kentucky Straight Rye, Canadian Rye, and a touch of California Port, which gives it a spicy but more fruit-driven character than a typical rye whiskey.
How much is a pour of Basil Hayden Dark Rye at Sparrow?
At Sparrow in Kirkland, Basil Hayden Dark Rye is $15 by the pour, or $22.50 for a larger pour.
Find it on the Sparrow beverages menu next to siblings like the Basil Hayden bourbon and Blade and Bow Bourbon. We are in Kirkland’s Juanita neighborhood on the Eastside, so reserve a table and come taste it.