Julie Reiner of the Flatiron Lounge Launches New Basil Hayden's Cocktails
Expert mixologist and owner of Manhattan's iconic Flatiron Lounge Julie Reiner wants you to drink bourbon all summer long.
Reiner has created two new cocktails using Basil Hayden's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a spirit she has loved since the age of 18 (scandal!). "I started working in a restaurant in Waikiki when I was 18, and I wanted to know what I was serving. I've always thought Basil Hayden's was very mixable. It's spicy, and that flavor comes through in the cocktail."
Basil Hayden's is indeed spicy, and has twice the rye of regular bourbons. Most notably, the body and flavor are significantly lighter than other bourbons or whiskeys, with a kindly alcohol quantity of just 80 proof. Bourbon and whiskey can sound a bit heavy for summertime imbibing, but after trying it for the first time myself on Wednesday, I'd say Basil Hayden's is remarkably refreshing, and I can see why Reiner chose it for Flatiron Lounge's summer menu.
"I knew it was going to be hot," said Reiner, "and most people equate bourbon with winter; a drink to 'warm you up.'" Her latest creations will change your mind:Kentucky Buck
- Basil Hayden's Bourbon
- Lemon Juice
- Pineapple Juice
- Simple Syrup
- Ginger Beer
- Garnish: Lemon Wheel & Candied Ginger
Sir Hayden's Smash (pictured)
- Basil Hayden's Bourbon
- Cio Ciaro Amaro
- Fresh Lemon Juice
- Garnish: Mint Sprig and a Blackberry (not the phone)
