In a celebration of craftsmanship and community spirit, New Riff Distillery is preparing to mark a significant milestone with the launch of their highly anticipated "Headliner" bourbon. Established in 2014, New Riff has steadily built a reputation for excellence in the world of Kentucky whiskey, blending traditional methods with innovative flavors.
Image credit: New Riff
The Headliner release, crafted specially for their 10th anniversary, is a culmination of New Riff's finest bourbons and whiskeys. This unique blend comprises 45% 10-year-old bourbon, providing a rich depth and maturity, complemented by 20% 9-year-old bourbon for added complexity. To enhance the blend further, 30% 9-year-old rye whiskey contributes a spicy character, while a subtle 5% of 7-year-old single malt whiskey adds nuanced notes of dark fruit. Bottled at barrel proof without chill filtration, Headliner promises a full-bodied experience that pays homage to New Riff's commitment to quality and craft.
What truly distinguishes the Headliner release goes beyond its exceptional taste—it's also about giving back. With each $250 bottle sold, New Riff will donate $125 to local charities such as Brighton Center, Green Umbrella, and Horizon Community Funds. This charitable initiative underscores New Riff's deep-rooted connection to the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati communities, where they've made a significant impact over the years.
Image credit: New Riff
To ensure fairness and inclusivity in purchasing this limited-edition release, New Riff has implemented a bottle lottery system. Interested buyers can enter for a chance to purchase a bottle by paying a $5 entry fee, which will be entirely donated to the designated charities. Each entry also includes a $5 gift certificate redeemable at The Aquifer Tasting Room—a space renowned for its immersive whiskey experiences and cocktail creations.
The artistic flair of the Headliner extends to its packaging. Each bottle is adorned with a hand-screen-printed label reminiscent of iconic 1970s concert posters, crafted by local Cincinnati artisans. This attention to detail not only enhances the bottle's aesthetic appeal but also makes it a coveted collector's item for whiskey enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Beyond the release itself, New Riff is gearing up for a 10-day celebration from July 11-21, offering an array of events to engage and delight visitors. The festivities will include live music performances, exclusive tastings, and special food pairings, all set against the backdrop of their newly renovated facilities. Guests can also enjoy the debut of Aqui Brew, a commemorative beer brewed in collaboration with HighGrain Brewing using water from the aquifer beneath the distillery and the same corn used in New Riff's whiskey production.
Founded by Ken Lewis, a pioneer in beverage alcohol retailing, New Riff has evolved under the leadership of CEO Hannah Lowen and President Mollie Lewis, maintaining a steadfast commitment to Kentucky's sour mash method and the bottled-in-bond standard. Their dedication to quality and innovation has not only garnered acclaim but also expanded their distribution to over 40 states, making New Riff a household name among whiskey aficionados nationwide.
As they celebrate a decade of growth and success, New Riff's Headliner release stands as a testament to their journey—from humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of Kentucky's whiskey renaissance. Each sip of Headliner not only captures the essence of New Riff's craftsmanship but also supports their ongoing mission to create exceptional spirits and foster community enrichment. Cheers to ten years of New Riff Distillery, and to many more chapters of innovation and generosity to come.
About New Riff Distilling
New Riff Distilling is a renowned American craft distillery located in Newport, Kentucky. Established in 2014, the distillery has quickly gained recognition for its commitment to producing high-quality bourbon and other spirits. New Riff is situated in the heart of the bourbon industry, with its location along the banks of the Ohio River, just across from Cincinnati, Ohio, making it an integral part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
One of the distinguishing features of New Riff is its dedication to the traditional bourbon-making process. They take pride in crafting their bourbon using the time-honored method of sour mash, which involves using a portion of the previous batch's fermented mash to kickstart the fermentation of the new one. This method contributes to the distinctive flavor profile of their bourbons.
The distillery is known for its hands-on approach, with every aspect of production carefully controlled and monitored. They source non-GMO grains locally, which allows them to have better control over the quality of their ingredients. Their commitment to transparency is evident in the fact that they provide detailed information about the grains they use, the yeast strains employed, and even the specific aging barrels used for each product.
New Riff's flagship bourbon, the New Riff Kentucky Straight Bourbon, has received critical acclaim for its rich and complex flavor profile. It is made from a mash bill that primarily consists of corn, rye, and malted barley, and it is aged in new charred oak barrels for a minimum of four years, adhering to the legal requirements for bourbon. This aging process imparts a deep amber color and a well-balanced combination of sweet and spicy notes.
In addition to their standard bourbon, New Riff produces a variety of other spirits, including rye whiskey and limited-edition releases. They have also gained recognition for their commitment to sustainability, with efforts to reduce waste and minimize their environmental footprint.
New Riff Distilling is an excellent example of a modern craft distillery that respects tradition while pushing the boundaries of innovation in the world of American whiskey. With a dedication to quality and a commitment to producing exceptional spirits, they have earned their place among the respected distilleries of Kentucky's bourbon country.
