Basil Hayden's Kentucky Bourbon

Simplicity

Tonight's drink is pretty simple. And that's good. On the slow recovery from a nasty cold, I need some quiet time. Shelly is busy giving a presentation to peers, which leaves me with an empty house, a stack of new reading and my favorite drink.

Here's a little secret: All these fancy recipes we list here? I make them for our guests but when it comes to mixing something for me, it's a couple of large ice cubes in a heavy rocks glass, and a good measure of bourbon. It serves as a reminder that the best ideas are generally the simplest ones.

Basil Hayden's 8 year A longtime favorite, Basil Hayden's is the perfect balance of soft bite, sweet honey and peppery spiciness and subtle rye notes. In my opinion it's the most approachable of the Small Batch Collection. If you're looking for a well balanced sipping bourbon, look no further. Rounding out the rest of my top 5 list (in no particular order) are: Maker's Mark Corner Creek Elijah Craig 12 Year Woodford Reserve Got a favorite whiskey we should try? Let us know on Facebook or find us on Twitter

Bourbon on the Rise One of my favorite trends in cocktail mixology of late is the use of bourbon, rye and other whiskeys in very imaginative ways. We've tried our hand at it with recipes like the Kentucky Cobbler, the Bourbon Belle and Francis The Mule. We like the results. Rumor has it that Quality Social, one of the latest in hip hangouts here in San Diego, is going heavy on the  whiskey drinks. I can't wait to give it a try.

CAUTION: Some bourbons listed here can reach the 100+ proof mark. Ouch. That's stiff stuff. Don't let your bourbon get the best of you. Sip responsibly.

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