A Whiskey Lover's Guide to New Riff Bourbon
When you’re browsing for a new whiskey, you’ll see terms like “Bottled-in-Bond” or “Non-Chill Filtered” on the label. These aren’t just fancy marketing phrases; they are promises of quality and authenticity. New Riff Distilling has built its entire reputation on these principles, offering a level of transparency that is truly refreshing. By adhering to these rigorous standards, they guarantee that every bottle of New Riff Bourbon is a well-made, flavorful, and consistent spirit. In this guide, we’ll explain what these terms actually mean for the whiskey in your glass and how New Riff’s dedication to them results in a superior sipping experience you can trust.
Key Takeaways
- Look for the Bottled-in-Bond Label: New Riff’s dedication to this 1897 quality standard, along with non-chill filtration, means you’re guaranteed an authentic, flavorful bourbon aged at least four years without any shortcuts.
- Embrace the Spice: Thanks to a high-rye grain recipe, New Riff bourbon delivers a distinctly bold and peppery flavor profile that sets it apart from sweeter whiskeys, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more robust character.
- Get Premium Quality Without the Premium Price: This bourbon consistently offers a complex tasting experience that rivals more expensive bottles, making it an incredible value and a reliable go-to for both new explorers and seasoned enthusiasts.
What Makes New Riff Bourbon Special?
In a world full of incredible Kentucky bourbons, it’s fair to ask what makes a newer distillery stand out. New Riff isn’t just another name on the shelf; it’s a statement. They’ve built their reputation on a foundation of transparency and a refusal to take shortcuts, blending age-old traditions with a fresh, modern perspective. From their specific grain recipes to their strict aging standards, every decision is made with the final flavor in mind. This commitment to quality is what gets bourbon lovers talking and makes each bottle a worthwhile addition to your collection. Let’s get into the details of what sets this Northern Kentucky distillery apart.
The Story Behind the Distillery
New Riff Distilling may seem like a new kid on the block, having opened its doors in 2014, but it’s deeply rooted in Kentucky’s rich whiskey-making heritage. As a family-owned operation, they bring a personal touch and an independent spirit to everything they do. While they’re best known for their fantastic bourbon and rye, they also produce other carefully crafted spirits, including a standout gin. Their mission was clear from day one: to become one of the world's great small distilleries. By embracing both tradition and innovation, New Riff has managed to create a new riff on old Kentucky traditions, earning a respected place in the whiskey world in a remarkably short time.
A High-Rye Mash Bill and Meticulous Methods
The secret to New Riff’s signature flavor starts with its mash bill—the grain recipe. Their flagship bourbon uses a high-rye recipe, with 30% rye alongside 65% corn and 5% malted barley. This high rye content is key, as it lends a beautiful spicy character that perfectly balances the sweetness from the corn. It creates a whisk(e)y that is both robust and nuanced, with layers of flavor to explore. This isn't an accident; it's a deliberate choice that reflects their dedication to making complex, interesting spirits. They proudly do things "the hard way," ensuring every step of the process meets their exacting standards, from grain selection to distillation.
The Bottled-in-Bond Promise
New Riff hangs its hat on the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, and for good reason. This isn't just a vintage-sounding label; it's a legal guarantee of quality. For a bourbon to be Bottled-in-Bond, it must be aged for at least four years, bottled at exactly 100 proof (50% ABV), and be the product of a single distillery from a single distilling season. By adhering to this standard for their core bourbon, New Riff provides a level of transparency and consistency that you can trust. It’s their way of showing you that they believe in patience and quality, ensuring the whiskey you’re sipping is authentic and well-made, without exception.
Pure Flavor: Non-Chill Filtration and Kentucky Water
Two final touches truly define New Riff’s character: their water source and their filtration process. The distillery sits on top of an aquifer that provides pure, limestone-filtered water—the same kind of water that has made Kentucky bourbon famous for centuries. Furthermore, all their whiskeys are non-chill filtered. This means they don’t chill the spirit before bottling to remove natural fats and oils. While these compounds can cause a slight haze when the whiskey gets cold, leaving them in results in a richer texture and a fuller, more authentic flavor. It’s a purist’s approach that ensures every drop in the bottle is as flavorful as it can possibly be, much like many other rare finds.
What Does New Riff Bourbon Taste Like?
Alright, let's get to the best part: pouring a glass and exploring what’s inside. New Riff’s high-rye mash bill and strict bottled-in-bond standards create a bourbon that’s bold, spicy, and full of character. It’s a fantastic example of how traditional methods can produce a modern, vibrant whiskey. While every palate is different, most drinkers find a consistent and delightful set of flavors in New Riff’s flagship bourbon. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when you take your first sip.
On the Nose: What You'll Smell
Before you even taste it, New Riff makes a great first impression. Lift the glass and take a gentle sniff. The first thing you’ll likely notice is a rich, oaky scent, balanced with classic baking spices like cinnamon, clove, and a touch of nutmeg. It’s warm and inviting, like walking into a kitchen during the holidays. Deeper in, you’ll find layers of sweetness—think brown sugar and vanilla—mingling with hints of dark cherry and a bit of orange zest. This complex aroma promises a whiskey with plenty of depth, setting the stage for a flavorful tasting experience.
On the Palate: Key Tasting Notes
Now for the sip. The moment New Riff hits your tongue, you’ll feel a pleasant, warming spice. That’s the high rye content making its presence known, bringing notes of black pepper, anise, and a hint of woodsmoke. But that initial spice quickly gives way to a wave of sweeter, richer flavors. Imagine biting into a juicy nectarine or tasting dark cherry drizzled with caramel. The oak from the barrel provides a solid backbone throughout, tying everything together without overpowering the other notes. It’s a beautifully balanced whiskey that manages to be both spicy and sweet.
The Finish: How It Lingers
The finish is how a whiskey says goodbye, and New Riff leaves a lasting impression. It has a medium-long finish with a satisfying, slightly oily texture that coats your mouth—a signature of non-chill filtered bourbons. The spice from the palate continues, with cinnamon and dry oak leading the way. As it fades, you might pick up lingering notes of orange peel, a little peppermint, and even a subtle hint of black tea. It’s a complex and evolving finish that invites you back for another sip to see what other flavors you can discover.
Must-Try New Riff Expressions
Ready to explore what New Riff has to offer? While every bottle shares the distillery's signature quality and character, each expression has a distinct personality. From their flagship bourbon to creative seasonal releases, there’s a perfect pour waiting for you. Getting to know their core lineup is the best way to understand what makes this distillery a modern classic. Here are a few essential bottles that deserve a spot on your bar cart.
New Riff Kentucky Straight Bourbon
This is the bottle that started it all and serves as the perfect introduction to the distillery’s style. New Riff's Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a high-rye, full-bodied whiskey that proudly meets the strict standards of being "bottled-in-bond." This means it’s the product of one distilling season, aged for at least four years, and bottled at a solid 100 proof. The mash bill—65% corn, 30% rye, and 5% malted barley—gives it a beautiful balance of classic caramel and vanilla sweetness with a kick of clove and black pepper spice. It’s a fantastic and affordable example of high-quality Kentucky whiskey that’s complex enough for sipping yet bold enough for cocktails.
New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon
For those who love a one-of-a-kind experience, the New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon is a must-try. Each bottle is drawn from a single cask, meaning no two barrels will ever taste exactly the same. This allows the unique character of the barrel to shine, offering subtle variations in aroma and flavor. Consistently praised by bourbon enthusiasts as rich, complex, and an excellent value, these bottles are a true snapshot of the distillery's craft. If you find a bottle you love, grab it—it’s a unique expression you won’t find again. It’s the perfect way to explore the delicious nuances that make whiskey so fascinating.
New Riff Malted Rye
New Riff proves its versatility with this exceptional Malted Rye. While many rye whiskeys are known for an aggressive spice, this expression uses 100% malted rye grains, which creates a softer, more rounded flavor profile. You’ll still get that signature rye pepper and mint, but it’s beautifully complemented by notes of sweet tea, fruit, and baking spice. It’s a wonderfully balanced and flavorful rye whiskey that showcases the distillery's thoughtful approach to production. If you think you don’t like rye, this bottle just might be the one to change your mind. It’s a smooth, elegant pour that stands out in a crowded field.
New Riff Winter Whiskey
When the weather turns chilly, keep an eye out for New Riff's Winter Whiskey. This limited release is one of the distillery's most creative seasonal offerings, designed specifically to capture the cozy essence of the season. While the exact recipe can vary, it often features unique grains or finishing techniques that result in warm, inviting flavors perfect for sipping by the fire. It’s a testament to New Riff’s innovative spirit and their willingness to experiment beyond the traditional. These bottles tend to disappear quickly, so if you see one, it’s a great opportunity to taste a different, more adventurous side of the distillery.
How Does New Riff Compare to Other Bourbons?
With a seemingly endless wall of whiskey at every liquor store, it’s fair to ask where New Riff fits in. Is it a daily sipper? A special occasion bottle? A craft experiment? The truth is, it carves out its own space by blending modern craft energy with old-school discipline. It stands shoulder-to-shoulder with established Kentucky distilleries by focusing on transparency and quality, often at a price that makes it an accessible choice for those looking to explore high-rye, full-flavored bourbon. It’s become a new classic, a go-to for those who appreciate a spirit with character.
Unlike some distilleries that offer a wide spectrum of mash bills, New Riff has a distinct and consistent point of view. Their bourbon is unapologetically bold and spicy, a direct result of their high-rye recipe. This sets it apart from the sweeter, softer profiles of wheated bourbons or the more traditional, corn-forward Kentucky styles. It’s a bourbon for people who want to taste the grain, particularly the zesty, peppery notes of rye. When you pick up a bottle of New Riff, you know you’re getting a thoughtfully made spirit that doesn’t compromise on flavor, from a distillery that proudly puts all its cards on the table.
Bang for Your Buck: Quality vs. Price
One of the most common praises you’ll hear about New Riff is its incredible value. As one reviewer put it, "Every bottle of New Riff bourbon that I've purchased has been delicious and well worth the money. And the price is pretty good too." While it isn’t a budget bourbon, it delivers a premium experience that often competes with bottles in a higher price bracket. You’re getting the quality assurances of a Bottled-in-Bond, non-chill filtered product without the sticker shock that can sometimes accompany craft spirits. This makes it a fantastic choice for both newcomers wanting to taste what quality bourbon is all about and seasoned drinkers looking for a reliable, flavorful addition to their home bar.
Clearing Up Common Myths
Because of its craft origins, some people might assume New Riff is a light or experimental bourbon. That couldn’t be further from the truth. As one taster noted, "New Riff Bourbon generally shows big and spicy flavors. This is not a light, delicate" spirit. Thanks to its 30% rye content, it’s robust, peppery, and full-bodied. Another misconception is that younger bourbons lack complexity. New Riff dispels this by adhering to the strict Bottled-in-Bond standards, ensuring every bottle has been aged at least four years and reflects a consistent level of quality and maturity. It’s a bold statement that proves craft doesn’t have to mean unpredictable.
The Value of a Four-Year Bourbon
In a market where older often means better, New Riff proudly stands by its four-year-old age statement. This isn't a shortcut; it's a deliberate choice. Four years in a new charred oak barrel is the sweet spot for developing deep flavors of caramel, rye spice, and subtle fruit without letting the oak become overpowering. While some drinkers chase the rare and hard-to-find bottles with double-digit age statements, New Riff proves that a well-made four-year bourbon can be incredibly complex and satisfying. For those new to bolder bourbons, its profile might seem a bit sharp at first, but a splash of water or a spot in a classic cocktail smooths its edges beautifully, making it a versatile and rewarding pour.
Where to Buy New Riff Bourbon
Finding a bottle of New Riff is a rewarding experience, and thankfully, it’s becoming easier as more people discover this Kentucky gem. Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping or enjoy browsing the aisles of your local store, you have a few great options for adding this high-rye bourbon to your collection. Getting your hands on their standard Kentucky Straight Bourbon is fairly straightforward, but for single-barrel picks or special releases, it helps to know where to look.
Find It at Main Street Liquor
Your search for New Riff can start and end right here. We pride ourselves on curating a fantastic selection of whisk(e)y, and that absolutely includes offerings from this standout Newport distillery. Shopping with us means you can browse from the comfort of your home and have your bottle delivered directly to your door—no hunting required. It’s the easiest way to secure a bottle of their flagship bourbon or see if we have any of their other unique expressions in stock. We make it simple to get the spirits you love without the hassle.
Other Places to Find New Riff
As New Riff’s reputation grows, so does its distribution. You can often find their products at well-stocked liquor stores across the country. If you’re out and about, it’s always worth checking the bourbon aisle of your favorite local shop. For those who want to see all their options, the New Riff Distilling website has a helpful finder tool to locate retailers near you. This is especially useful if you're traveling or want to see which bars in your area are pouring their whiskey.
Perks of the New Riff Whiskey Club
If you’ve become a true New Riff enthusiast, you’ll want to know about this insider tip. The distillery runs the New Riff Whiskey Club, a free-to-join program that gives members early access to special releases. Twice a year, you’ll get an email link to purchase limited-edition and hard-to-find whiskeys before they’re available to the general public. There’s no obligation to buy, but it’s your best shot at snagging some of their most sought-after bottles, like unique single barrels and experimental batches, directly from the source.
What's the Verdict from Bourbon Fans?
It’s one thing for us to tell you how great New Riff is, but what do other bourbon lovers think? The consensus is overwhelmingly positive. From seasoned critics to everyday enthusiasts, people are drawn to the distillery's commitment to quality, transparency, and bold flavors. New Riff has quickly built a reputation for producing a consistently delicious and well-made whiskey that stands up to bottles twice its price. The community appreciates that what you see is what you get: an authentic, unfiltered bourbon experience that doesn't cut corners. Let's look at what people are saying.
What the Experts Say
Whiskey critics have been quick to praise New Riff for its impressive quality right out of the gate. The experts at Bourbon Banter highlight its "genuinely high-rye, full-bodied" character, noting that it delivers a savory and spicy profile that’s hard to miss. This sentiment is echoed across the board. As the Bourbon Guy puts it, "Every bottle of New Riff bourbon that I've purchased has been delicious and well worth the money." This consistent quality and fair pricing are recurring themes, making it a favorite recommendation for those seeking both value and exceptional flavor in their bourbon collection.
Hear from Fellow Drinkers
The enthusiasm isn't just limited to professional critics. Online forums and tasting groups are buzzing with positive reviews from drinkers who appreciate New Riff's bold approach. One fan on Reddit captured it perfectly, explaining that while each single barrel has its own unique profile, they all share a "big and spicy" character. They add, "This is not a light, delicate bourbon." This straightforward, powerful flavor is exactly what has won over so many people. It’s a bourbon that makes a statement, offering a rich and memorable tasting experience that keeps you coming back for another pour.
Perfect Pairings & Serving Ideas
So, what’s the best way to enjoy New Riff? Its robust flavor profile makes it incredibly versatile. If you're new to high-rye bourbons, you might find it a bit sharp neat. As the folks at Bourbon Banter suggest, "adding water calms it down nicely for anyone to enjoy." A large ice cube also works beautifully, slowly unlocking different layers of flavor as it melts. For cocktails, its spicy backbone shines in classics like an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan. When it comes to food, try pairing it with smoked meats, sharp cheddar cheese, or a rich dessert like dark chocolate lava cake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is New Riff a good bourbon for beginners? While its bold, spicy flavor can be a little intense if you're used to softer bourbons, New Riff is an excellent choice for someone looking to explore what a high-rye whiskey tastes like. Its quality is guaranteed by the Bottled-in-Bond standard, so you know you're tasting a well-made spirit. I'd suggest starting with a splash of water or a large ice cube to gently temper the spice and open up its sweeter caramel and fruit notes.
What's the real difference between the Kentucky Straight Bourbon and the Single Barrel? Think of the Kentucky Straight Bourbon as the distillery's signature sound—it's a consistent and delicious blend of many barrels that perfectly represents their classic high-rye style. The Single Barrel, on the other hand, is like a solo performance. Each bottle comes from one individual cask, so its flavor profile is unique. You might find one barrel is spicier while another is heavier on vanilla or fruit, which makes it a fun way to taste the subtle variations in the aging process.
What does "non-chill filtered" actually mean for my drink? Non-chill filtration is a purist's approach to bottling. It means New Riff doesn't chill the whiskey to remove natural fatty acids and oils before bottling. These compounds are packed with flavor and contribute to a richer, fuller texture in your mouth. You might notice a slight haze in the bottle if it gets cold, but that's a good sign—it means all the original character and flavor from the barrel made it into your glass.
Why do they focus so much on being "Bottled-in-Bond"? New Riff uses the Bottled-in-Bond Act as a promise of quality and transparency. It's a legally defined standard that guarantees the bourbon is at least four years old, bottled at exactly 100 proof, and comes from a single distillery in a single season. By adhering to this old-school rule for their core products, they're showing you they don't take shortcuts and are committed to delivering an authentic, consistent, and high-quality whiskey every time.
What's the best way to enjoy New Riff bourbon? Its versatility is one of its best features. To appreciate its full complexity, try it neat or with a single large ice cube. The spice and robust character also make it a fantastic base for classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan, as it won't get lost behind other ingredients. It stands up beautifully to strong flavors, so it pairs wonderfully with grilled steak or a sharp, aged cheese.