New Riff Single Barrel Whiskey
A Brief History: The New Kid on the Barrel
New Riff Distilling may be new to the bourbon scene, but it’s making waves faster than you can say "whiskey business." Established in 2014 by Ken Lewis, a former liquor retailer with a dream, New Riff is based in Newport, Kentucky. They’ve been all about that high rye content and bottled-in-bond goodness from day one. If you’re scratching your head wondering what "riff" means, it’s like a musical riff—innovative and unique, just like their whiskey. Let’s dive into the main event: the New Riff Single Barrel Whiskey!
First Impressions: The Bottle That Rocks
Before we even pop the cork, let's talk aesthetics. The bottle is sleek, black, and mysterious—like it belongs in a spy movie. The design is simple yet sophisticated, with an air of "I know I’m good, no need to show off." It’s the James Bond of bourbon bottles. Which James Bond? I’ll leave that up to you!
Nose Dive: A Sniff Worth Nosing Around
Let’s be honest; the first thing everyone does is stick their nose in the glass. And boy, does New Riff Single Barrel not disappoint. There’s a symphony of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice that tickles your nostrils. It’s like your grandma’s kitchen during Christmas—warm, inviting, and a tad overwhelming with brooms of spice everywhere, but in the best way possible. You might find yourself sniffing it for longer than socially acceptable. Just don’t do this in public; it’s weird.
The First Sip: A Punch in the Mouth (In a Good Way)
Taking that first sip is like getting a high-five from a bourbon angel. The high rye content gives it a spicy kick that’ll make your taste buds sit up and take notice. I think this one has the most rye mixture with corn and barley out of all my stash. A burst of oak, caramel, and a peppery zing also does a little jig on your tongue. It's bold, it's brash, and it’s oh-so-satisfying. If this whiskey were a person, it’d be the life of the party, making questionable yet unforgettable decisions.
Mid-Palate: The Flavor Symphony
As it settles, the flavors start to harmonize. The spiciness mellows into a rich vanilla and toffee mix, with a hint of dark chocolate, making a surprise guest appearance and even some leathery/ tobacco flavors. It’s like a bourbon jazz band in your mouth, each note hitting just right. You might even pick up some fruity undertones if you feel particularly fancy. Or you might not. Either way, it’s delicious.
Finish Line: The Goodbye That Lingers
The finish is long and smooth, like a Southern goodbye—just when you think it’s over, it keeps going. The spicy rye and sweet oak flavors linger, giving you a warm, satisfying glow. It’s the kind of finish that makes you want to pour another glass, purely for "scientific" reasons, of course.
Final Thoughts: New Riff, New Favorite?
New Riff Single Barrel Whiskey is a delightful addition to any bourbon lover’s collection. It’s bold, complex, and a whole lot of fun. Sometimes, you're left pondering your decisions when it comes to single barrels. However, for $52, you can’t beat this selection. Whether you're a bourbon newbie or a seasoned sipper, this one’s sure to impress. So grab a bottle, gather some friends, and prepare for a night of questionable decisions and memorable moments.
Cheers to a dram good time! 🥃✨
The Details:
Proof: 111 (Varies) • Mashbill: 65% Corn • 30% Rye • 5% Barley • Aged: 4yrs (at least) • Price: $52.99
Brown Water Rating Scale:
Nose: 3 • Palate: 4 • Finish: 3 • Uniqueness: 4 • Value: 5 • Overall: 3.8
This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. 