New Riff Distilling, a standout name in Kentucky’s whiskey scene, has just dropped a bombshell for spirit enthusiasts with the release of its first-ever 10-year-old whiskeys: the First Decade Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and the First Decade Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey. This dual release, announced in May 2025, marks a major milestone for the Newport-based distillery, showcasing a decade of craftsmanship, bold innovation, and unwavering commitment to quality. Available exclusively through the New Riff Whiskey Club starting May 22, 2025, these limited-edition whiskeys are poised to capture the hearts of bourbon and rye fans alike. Here’s everything you need to know about these groundbreaking releases, from their unique flavor profiles to the story behind their creation.
A Decade in the Making: New Riff’s Journey to 10 Years Since its founding in 2014 by Ken Lewis, a visionary entrepreneur with deep roots in Kentucky’s liquor industry, New Riff Distilling has carved out a reputation for doing things differently. Located in Northern Kentucky, just across the river from Cincinnati, the independently owned distillery has built its brand on a foundation of time-honored sour mash methods and bottled-in-bond standards while pushing the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making. The release of the First Decade whiskeys is a testament to the trust and creative freedom that Lewis instilled in his team from day one, as highlighted by Master Distiller Brian Sprance.
“This release is a direct reflection of our first decade of distilling,” Sprance said in a statement. “It is a testament to the values and trust that founder Ken Lewis instilled back in 2014, when we were empowered to be creative and prioritize quality above all else. A decade later, we are seeing the results of that commitment — and it is a direct reflection of who we are and how we’ve grown.”
The First Decade whiskeys are part of New Riff’s High Note Series, a collection designed to showcase limited production runs, one-off creations, and unique barrels that stand out from the distillery’s core lineup. Non chill filtered, it is bottled at a robust 120.5 proof, these 10-year-old expressions were carefully blended from standout barrels, selected for their exceptional depth and character. The result is a pair of whiskeys that embody New Riff’s fierce independence and innovative spirit, offering a taste of what a decade of patience and precision can achieve.
Tasting the First Decade Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey The First Decade Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is crafted with New Riff’s signature high-rye mashbill, consisting of 65% corn, 30% rye, and 5% malted barley. This combination delivers a full-bodied, savory, and spicy profile that has become a hallmark of the distillery’s bourbon offerings. The nose greets you with inviting aromas of cinnamon coffee cake, stewed fruits, and wood spice, setting the stage for a complex sipping experience.
On the palate, the bourbon unfolds with well-structured flavors of cherry cola and fruit leather, balanced by the tannic bite of rye and oak. The finish is rich and warm, leaving lingering notes of pepper and wood that invite you to take another sip. This bourbon is a masterclass in balance, blending the sweetness of corn with the bold spice of rye and the depth of a decade in charred oak barrels. At 120.5 proof, it packs a punch but remains smooth and approachable, making it a versatile choice for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned.
Exploring the First Decade Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey For rye lovers, the First Decade Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is a must-try. Made with a mashbill of 95% rye and 5% malted rye—the same recipe used in New Riff’s acclaimed Bottled-in-Bond and Single Barrel rye expressions—this whiskey is a bold, spicy powerhouse. The aroma is a vibrant mix of spearmint, dark raspberries, and spicy cinnamon, offering a fresh and enticing introduction.
The palate delivers a rich, layered experience, with flavors of oak, plum, and tobacco weaving together seamlessly. The finish is long-lasting, with cooling mint and sharp peppercorn notes that linger on the tongue. This rye whiskey showcases the intensity and complexity that come with a decade of aging, while still retaining the freshness and vibrancy that define New Riff’s approach. At 120.5 proof, it’s a bold sipper that rye enthusiasts will want to savor slowly to appreciate its full range of flavors.
Exclusivity and Accessibility: How to Get Your Hands on These Whiskeys Both the First Decade Bourbon and Rye Whiskeys are priced at a suggested retail of $89.99, a fair value for 10-year-old, barrel-proof whiskeys of this caliber. However, their exclusivity makes them a hot commodity. These releases are available only through the New Riff Whiskey Club, a free-to-join program that offers members early access to limited releases, member-only events, and exclusive tastings. Starting May 22, 2025, Whiskey Club members can purchase the whiskeys for pickup at the distillery’s Riff Shop in Newport, Kentucky. They will also be available by the pour at the Aquifer Tasting Room, located on the third floor of the distillery, where visitors can enjoy signature cocktails, flights, and pours of New Riff’s full portfolio, including rare and distillery-exclusive releases.
To join the Whiskey Club and secure your chance to purchase these whiskeys, visit www.newriffwhiskeyclub.com. Membership is first-come, first-serve, and given the anticipation surrounding these releases, interested buyers should act quickly to avoid missing out. Note that purchases must be picked up at the distillery within 60 days, and shipping is not available.
The New Riff Difference: Craftsmanship and Innovation What sets New Riff apart in the crowded world of Kentucky whiskey is its unrelenting focus on quality and innovation. The distillery sources its water from a 100-foot-deep private well tapping into an alluvial aquifer beneath the facility, providing cold, clean, and mineral-rich water that enhances the flavor of its whiskeys. Every bottle is produced using the sour mash Kentucky regimen, a traditional method that ensures consistency and depth of flavor. New Riff’s commitment to bottled-in-bond standards—requiring a minimum of four years aging, 100 proof, and production at a single distillery in one season—further underscores its dedication to excellence.
The decision to bottle these whiskeys without chill filtration is another nod to quality, preserving the full spectrum of flavors and textures that can be lost in the filtration process. This approach, combined with the use of 53-gallon toasted and charred new oak barrels for aging, results in whiskeys that are bold, complex, and true to their roots.
A Distillery Worth Visiting For those eager to experience New Riff firsthand, the distillery’s public spaces, renovated in 2023, offer a welcoming and immersive experience. The Riff Shop features customizable gifting options and locally sourced artisan goods, making it a great spot to pick up unique souvenirs. The Aquifer Tasting Room, perched on the third floor, is a must-visit for whiskey lovers, offering a chance to sample New Riff’s award-winning spirits in a cozy, modern setting. The distillery also runs a popular private barrel selection program, allowing groups to choose quarter, half, or full barrels with personalized labels—a perfect option for collectors or special occasions.
Looking Ahead: The Future of New Riff The release of the First Decade whiskeys is a landmark moment for New Riff, but it’s clear the distillery is just getting started. With a track record of producing award-winning bourbon, rye, single malt whiskey, and gin, New Riff continues to push the envelope while staying true to Kentucky’s whiskey-making heritage. The High Note Series, in particular, promises more exciting releases in the future, from experimental mashbills to rare barrel selections.
For now, the First Decade Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskeys stand as a celebration of New Riff’s first 10 years and a preview of what’s to come. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey collector or a curious newcomer, these whiskeys offer a chance to taste history in the making. Join the New Riff Whiskey Club, plan a visit to Newport, and raise a glass to a decade of bold flavors and fearless innovation.
