In the world of American whiskey, where traditions run as deep as the roots of old Kentucky soil, there's something special about a spirit that harkens back to simpler times. New Riff Distilling, tucked away in Northern Kentucky, is bringing back its Red Turkey Wheat Kentucky Straight Bourbon after a four-year hiatus. This isn't just another bottle on the shelf—it's a nod to history, crafted with an heirloom grain that's been around since the 1870s, offering flavors that modern whiskeys often miss.
For those who appreciate a good pour after a long day, this re-release is big news. New Riff has been experimenting with unique ingredients since they opened their doors, and Red Turkey Wheat stands out as a prime example. Master Distiller Brian Sprance puts it plainly: they've been diving into historic grains from the start, and this one delivers deeper tastes and smells that you won't find in everyday varieties. It's the kind of thing that's being kept alive by dedicated farmers, bakers who swear by it for their loaves, and distillers like the team at New Riff who see its potential in every barrel.
The story of this bourbon starts back in 2016, when New Riff first fired up their stills with Red Turkey Wheat. They've been patiently aging batches ever since, letting time work its magic in the rickhouses. The first release hit shelves in 2021, and it didn't take long for the accolades to roll in—gold medals from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the Barleycorn Awards, proving that this wheated whiskey could hold its own against the big names. Now, after years of anticipation, it's making a comeback in limited quantities across the country, giving folks a chance to snag a bottle before it's gone again.
What makes Red Turkey Wheat stand out in a sea of bourbons? It all comes down to the mash bill—the recipe that defines its character. This one uses 70% corn for that classic sweetness, 25% Red Turkey Wheat to add a soft, nuanced depth, and just 5% malted barley to help with fermentation. Aged for at least five years in charred oak barrels, it's bottled-in-bond at a sturdy 100 proof, ensuring every sip packs authenticity and strength. At a suggested price of around $60 for a 750ml bottle, it's positioned as a premium yet approachable option for anyone building their home bar.
Availability kicks off on August 15, so mark your calendars. You'll find it at select liquor stores nationwide, and for those who prefer shopping from the couch, New Riff's website offers online shipping where laws allow. If you're in the area, swinging by the distillery itself is the way to go—not only can you pick up a bottle, but you get a feel for the place where it all happens.
Speaking of the distillery, New Riff isn't some corporate giant; it's an independent operation that's all about quality over quantity. Perched in Northern Kentucky, they turn out a range of spirits beyond this bourbon, including rye whiskeys, single malt varieties, and even gin for when you want to mix things up. They're particularly known for their single barrel selections, where each bottle comes from one specific cask, offering subtle differences that make collecting them a hobby in itself. And if you're the type who likes to get hands-on, their private barrel program lets you pick your own—quarter, half, or full barrels, complete with custom labels to make it personal. Imagine gifting a buddy a bottle with his name on it, straight from the source.
One of the secrets to their success lies underground. New Riff draws its water from a private well that's 100 feet deep, tapping into an alluvial aquifer right beneath the property. This isn't your average tap water—it's cold, pure, and loaded with minerals that enhance the whiskey-making process, giving the final product that extra layer of complexity. It's details like this that remind you why small-batch distillers can outshine the mass-produced stuff.
This re-release comes on the heels of other exciting developments at New Riff, like their announcement of a 2025 single malt whiskey, showing they're not resting on their laurels. But for now, the spotlight is on Red Turkey Wheat, a bourbon that bridges the past and present. It's more than a drink; it's a piece of agricultural heritage, preserved in liquid form for those who value the stories behind what they sip.
If you've ever wondered what bourbon tasted like back in the day, before industrial farming changed the game, this is your chance to find out. Whether you're enjoying it neat by the fire, over ice on the porch, or sharing a dram with friends during a weekend gathering, Red Turkey Wheat invites you to slow down and savor the richness of tradition. Head to newriffdistilling.com for more details, and don't wait too long—these bottles won't last. In a fast-paced world, there's comfort in knowing some things, like a well-made whiskey, still take time to get right.
