New Riff Single Barrel Release
New Riff has managed something rare in modern bourbon: authenticity without nostalgia gimmicks. The distillery respects Kentucky traditions while still feeling modern and experimental. Their single barrel program reflects that perfectly. It’s transparent, enthusiast-driven, and rooted in flavor rather than hype. And in a bourbon market flooded with sourced whiskey, celebrity labels, and inflated secondary prices, that honesty matters. For bourbon fans looking to explore beyond the usual Buffalo Trace and Heaven Hill rotations, New Riff single barrels offer one of the most rewarding hunts on the shelf today.
What separates a true single barrel bourbon from a standard release is individuality. No blending. No smoothing out rough edges. No averaging barrels together to create consistency. New Riff leans heavily into that philosophy. The distillery openly describes each barrel as “singular in personality,” and private barrel selections have become a major part of their culture. That’s why bourbon groups, liquor stores, and enthusiast communities aggressively pursue New Riff picks. One barrel may showcase rich cherry cola sweetness, while another drinks like smoky barbecue sauce and cracked pepper.
This is our 3rd single barrel bourbon from New Riff, getting older each release. It has truly been amazing to see how these barrels are maturing - providing the most unexpected flavors! Our newest barrel coming in at 6 years and 117.2 proof, is the perfect bbq sipper this memorial day. This barrel was distilled in the early spring of 2019 and aged in a Kelvin Coparage Char #4 barrels. It rested in Warehouse C, Floor 4, Row 5, Tier 2.
On the palate you can tell as these barrels get older the oak is becoming more present. With hints of orange marmalade, brown sugar crusted creme brulee. And finishes that deliver toasted almonds and peach skins. A simple, straight forward sipping bourbon.
Our latest addition of New Riff Rye is coming big at 125.2 proof, and also 6 years of age. Distilled in the winter of 2018 and barreled in Independent Stave Company Reserve Heavy Toast #1 Char. Aged in Building C, Floor 5, Row 20, Tier 1.
This whiskey is a lot more complex delivering a proof that does not live up to its weight. This rye is filled with ginger snap, dark tobacco, and salty butterscotch. Its viscosity brings forward a floral note of soft white flowers with a fullness of freshly baked fudge!
We recommend trying the single barrel rye with a Spanish vermouth to make a Manhattan!
Sample bottles available at the Main St and Watertown location.
