New Riff Distilling, a well-respected name in the world of Kentucky whiskey, has just announced the release of two exciting new additions to its Silver Grove lineup for 2025. These commemorative whiskeys—a straight bourbon and a straight rye—are set to hit the shelves exclusively at the distillery’s gift shop in Newport, Kentucky, starting April 4, 2025. Priced at $55.99 each, these limited-edition bottles are more than just a treat for whiskey lovers; they’re a tribute to the region’s rich distilling history and a way to give back to the Silver Grove community.
A Nod to the Past and a Step Toward the Future
The Silver Grove name carries deep meaning for New Riff. It’s inspired by a Prohibition-era whiskey from the 1930s, originally distilled in Cincinnati and bottled by the George T. Stagg Distillery. That historical connection ties into New Riff’s mission to blend old-school traditions with fresh, innovative twists. At the same time, the name reflects the distillery’s modern-day ties to Silver Grove, Kentucky, where they built a new barrel warehouse in 2022. This facility was a practical move to meet growing demand, but it also sparked a partnership that’s making a real difference in the area.
Since launching the Silver Grove series in 2023, New Riff has used proceeds from these special releases to support the Silver Grove Community Foundation, a group focused on improving life in the small Kentucky town. To date, sales have raised nearly $62,000, with funds going toward community projects like the new park at Green Valley Pond, dedicated in 2024. That park now boasts benches, trash bins, a message board, and a recreational trail linking it to local sidewalks—all thanks to the whiskey lovers who’ve supported the cause.
Meet the 2025 Silver Grove Whiskeys
What makes the 2025 releases extra special is that they’re the first New Riff whiskeys to bear the signature of Master Distiller Brian Sprance. Known for his skill in crafting bold, flavorful spirits, Sprance has put his personal stamp on these barrel-proof blends, hand-picking barrels to highlight the best of what New Riff has to offer.
Image credit: New Riff Distilling
The 2025 Silver Grove Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a four-year-old spirit bottled at 110.3 proof. Its mashbill—60% corn, 35% rye, and 5% malted barley—creates a balanced yet complex profile. Expect a mix of sweet corn notes, spicy rye kick, and a smooth, malty finish that’s become a hallmark of New Riff’s style. Sprance describes it as a whiskey that lets its “purest voice” shine through, with layers of depth and character straight from the barrel.
Then there’s the 2025 Silver Grove Straight Rye Whiskey, also aged for four years and bottled at 110.2 proof. With a mashbill of 95% rye and 5% malted rye, this one’s for the rye enthusiasts who crave big, bold flavors. It’s got that classic rye spice—think pepper and clove—rounded out by the subtle sweetness of malted rye. Sprance says these barrels were chosen to showcase the “rich, layered profile” that makes New Riff’s rye stand out.
Image credit: New Riff Distilling
Both whiskeys are bottled at barrel strength, meaning no water is added to dilute them. That keeps the flavors intense and true to what comes out of the barrel, a choice that’s earned New Riff plenty of praise from whiskey fans. “We’ve always believed in letting the whiskey speak for itself,” Sprance said in a recent statement. “By bottling our signature bourbon and rye straight from the barrel, we’re showcasing the full depth, character, and complexity that make these whiskeys truly special.”
A Legacy of Innovation and Community Support
New Riff kicked off the Silver Grove series back in 2023 with a bourbon that blended vintage vibes with modern flair. It was a hit, introducing fans to a barrel-proof blend that wasn’t a single barrel—a first for the distillery. In 2024, they followed up with another Silver Grove Bourbon and debuted a Silver Grove Rye, both of which kept the momentum going. Each release has built on the idea of exploring unique mashbills and aging techniques, like using malted grains to add new dimensions to the flavor.
The 2025 editions continue that tradition, and they’re a point of pride for Sprance. “For this release, we hand-selected barrels that best exemplify the rich, layered profile of our bourbon and rye,” he explained. “It’s an expression I’m especially proud to put my name on for the very first time.”
Beyond the whiskey itself, New Riff’s commitment to Silver Grove shines through. When they decided to build the new rickhouse in 2022, President Mollie Lewis saw it as a chance to do more than just store barrels. “We knew we wanted to support that community through our philanthropic efforts, just as we do in Newport,” she said. The results speak for themselves: nearly $62,000 raised so far, with more to come from the 2025 sales.
Where and When to Get Your Hands on These Whiskeys
If you’re eager to try the 2025 Silver Grove Bourbon or Rye, you’ll need to plan a trip to Newport. These whiskeys are only available at New Riff’s gift shop, located at the distillery on 24 Distillery Way. They go on sale Friday, April 4, 2025, for $55.99 per bottle—a steal for barrel-proof, limited-edition whiskeys with this kind of story behind them. Given their exclusivity and the buzz around past releases, they’re likely to sell out fast, so mark your calendar.
About New Riff Distilling
Based in Northern Kentucky, right on the edge of bourbon country, New Riff Distilling has been shaking things up since 2014. This family-owned operation sticks to time-tested methods like sour mash fermentation and bottled-in-bond standards, but they’re not afraid to experiment. The result? A lineup of award-winning bourbons, ryes, single malt whiskeys, and even a gin that’s now available across the U.S. after their recent leap to national distribution.
The distillery’s home in Newport sits above an alluvial aquifer, a natural water source that gives their spirits a clean, limestone-rich edge. It’s part of what makes New Riff’s whiskeys so distinctive, whether it’s their everyday offerings or special releases like Silver Grove. For more details on their story, tours, or products, check out their website at newriffdistilling.com.
Why the 2025 Silver Grove Release Matters
The 2025 Silver Grove whiskeys aren’t just another pair of bottles to add to your collection—they’re a celebration of craftsmanship, history, and community. With Brian Sprance’s signature on the label, they mark a milestone for New Riff as they continue to grow their reputation in the whiskey world. Plus, every purchase helps fund projects that make Silver Grove a better place to live, from parks to community-led initiatives.
Whether you’re a bourbon buff, a rye lover, or just someone who appreciates a good story in their glass, these whiskeys are worth seeking out. They’re a taste of Kentucky’s past and present, bottled up and ready to enjoy—one sip at a time.
