Basil Hayden's Two By Two Rye (Discontinued)

I was pleasantly surprised by this months ago at a tasting, perhaps it was overshadowed by the other samples. I left that event with two favorites: this and a Knob Creek cask strength rye. I enjoyed it enough to purchase a bottle. This time, however, I was simply let down. I opened it tonight to share with some colleagues. It seems the bourbon and rye didn't blend well. The flavors are indistinct between the two, each vying for dominance. While I appreciate creative experimentation, this rye-bourbon combination is no longer novel; others have executed it more successfully (like High West Bourye). However, creative experimentation is only valuable if well-executed. In this instance, neither the rye nor the bourbon seems to be prominent. Ideally, the bourbon's sweetness would appear first, followed by the spicy rye on the finish. Instead, both are in conflict throughout. Should you try it at a bar, buy a bottle, or skip it? I'd suggest trying it at a bar.

Consumed neat. I enjoy bourbon and appreciate rye. This offered a pleasant fusion of both - consisting of 2 bourbons and 2 ryes, hence the 2x2 designation. Not the pinnacle of my tasting experiences, nor the worst. It represents good value for the price. I haven't encountered a basil hayden's product I disliked, but none have truly impressed me either. Rating Scale: "0-1: Beyond bad. A complete waste of funds in my opinion. 2: Poor. Simply not to my taste 2.5: Sub-par. I would consume it... but only because it's whiskey. 3: Good. Decent quality, but not a repeat purchase 3.5: Very good. I might consider buying it again 4: Excellent: Will acquire a bottle promptly 4.5: Incredible: Top priority for purchase 5: Amazing: The cost and flavor are worth every penny"

Nose: Rye spice, grassy notes, oak, and possibly some vanilla. The aromas are fragrant and integrate well beneath the grass. Palate: Sweet! Vanilla and light oak are present, along with some bubblegum. I'm not detecting much rye. There's a peanut butter note, similar to many Jim Beam products. Finish: The finish seems indistinct. I certainly get the bourbon notes and some rye spice on the final taste, which is interesting since it wasn't very prominent on the palate. Mostly peanuts, muted leather, and some oak that swirls around the smooth palate.

***NOT A FAN OF RYE*** My preference is not for Ryes, so keep that in mind. It's adequate at best. Mild flavor with minimal burn or spice. This should appeal to those who prefer mild bourbon, but it will certainly disappoint experienced drinkers. I won't seek to purchase it again. (This was a gift). 2.6/5

Nose has vanilla and orange, with a hint of rye bread but less grainy than a typical rye. Palate leads with orange peel and pear, then a classic oaky middle. Finish has a gentle rye spice and lasting woody notes. Overall, a very pleasant pour. A good whiskey, but perhaps not for dedicated rye enthusiasts.

The first bottle I purchased and paid extra for. It's been a long few years of having this now and then; I've experienced more pours that were merely acceptable than ones I genuinely enjoyed. Uncertain if I'll buy a replacement, other than to complete the full Basil Hayden's collection.