Basil Hayden Bourbon, has announced the launch of a new limited-edition release, which is said to retain the brand’s signature high rye mash bill, while combining Kentucky Bourbon craftsmanship with French Cognac character.

Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve (40% ABV) is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon, distilled at the James B. Beam Distilling Co. It was initially matured in American oak barrels before being finished in French oak casks that previously held Cognac for 20–25 years.

The latest release is said to bring decades of Cognac character to Basil Hayden’s signature light, bright and approachable flavour profile, while adding layers of elegant complexity. It delivers notes of warm caramel sweetness and dried fruit, complemented by Basil Hayden’s signature subtle spice, vanilla and oak, adding depth to the limited release.

Created in 1992 by Booker Noe as part of the original Small Batch Collection, Basil Hayden was crafted to showcase a different side of bourbon. Noe set out to open people’s minds to what bourbon could be, using a high-rye mash bill to create a brighter, more approachable bourbon that challenged the category’s traditionally bold and intimidating expectations.

Commenting on the launch, Freddie Noe, Eighth Generation Master Distiller at the James B. Beam Distilling Co., said: “Basil Hayden Cognac Cask reflects our commitment to honouring the brand’s original bourbon while continuing to explore what’s possible within the category. This expression was thoughtfully crafted to deliver a distinctive yet approachable experience. French Cognac casks let us take our Basil Hayden signature profile that people know and love and put a twist on it, and we’re incredibly proud to share it with bourbon and Cognac drinkers alike.”

Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve is now available from select specialist retailers in the US, for a RRP of $49.99.