New Riff Kentucky Straight Bourbon Review & Tasting Notes

New Riff Kentucky Straight Bourbon is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, shunning shortcuts and embracing traditional aging methods. A standout aspect of this Bourbon is its distinctive mash bill, which comprises 30% rye, a notably higher ratio than the typical 10-25% found in most bourbons. This choice of grains, all non-GMO, underscores a commitment to quality and sustainability.

The production process begins using pure limestone water from an aquifer beneath the distillery. This is followed by an open fermentation process, ensuring the development of rich, complex flavors before distillation in a refined copper column still. The Bourbon undergoes a four-year aging period in 53-gallon toasted and charred virgin American oak barrels, essential for imparting depth and character. Notably, the whiskey is bottled without chill filtration, which preserves its natural color and the nuanced character influenced by the barrel, ensuring a robust and authentic tasting experience.

New Riff Kentucky Straight Bourbon Tasting Notes

Appearance: Deep Amber     Proof: 100     Age: 4 Years    Price: Around $40.00

Nose: The initial aroma exudes a refined symphony of bakery essences, featuring a harmonious blend of freshly baked bread, cinnamon, and brown sugar notes. Subtle undertones of charred oak, black pepper, baked cinnamon apples, and vanilla beans skillfully complement these. The distinctive and elegant aroma provides an enticing introduction to the tasting experience.

Palate: The initial sip reveals a harmony of flavors, where the oak's warmth and the rye's spiciness create a harmonious balance. As the Bourbon coats the tongue, the complexity of the spices unfolds, with each note dancing on the palate. The pepper adds a subtle heat, while the nutmeg and cinnamon provide a comforting warmth. The earthy scent adds depth, grounding the flavors and enhancing the overall experience. The vanilla custard, spice cake, and orange zest brighten as the sweetness develops, while the cherry hints of tartness. The lingering notes of molasses leave a lasting impression with a rich and velvety finish that invites you to savor each sip.

Finish: The finish is notably refined, with its presence enduring considerably. The non-chill filtering imparts a robust mouthfeel accompanied by a distinctive oily texture. The essence of charred oak remains perceptible, transitioning into a sweeter undertone, where brown sugar prominently emerges as the primary sweet element. Caramel, dark red fruit, and orange fragrances subtly enrich the profile. The finish is particularly engaging; as it dissipates, a delicate interplay of spice, mint, leather, and tobacco unfurls gracefully.

Summary & Final Thoughts: For those who perceive craft whiskey as predominantly underage, grain-forward, and subpar, allow New Riff to offer a refined perspective. Expertly crafted bottled-in-bond whiskey, New Riff represents excellence in distillation. This Bourbon is a substantial offering with moderate availability, making it a worthy addition to any collection and a quintessential embodiment of Bourbon characteristics. It is particularly suited for aficionados of high-rye bourbons, offering quality without the premium price tag. New Riff Straight Bourbon is ideal for drinking neat, on the rocks, crafting cocktails, and exploring diverse recipes.

The trend is shifting as more craft distilleries release Bottled in Bond bourbons, showcasing their matured, internally distilled spirits. New Riff Straight Bourbon stands out in this competitive arena, demonstrating formidable quality among comparable products. Distillers like New Riff, adhering to the Bottled in Bond standards, emphasize transparency and have integrated additional processes to ensure authenticity and enhance the appreciation of their whiskey.

Priced strategically, New Riff Straight Bourbon offers a nuanced yet robust tasting experience. Its consistency and depth at this price point signify a well-balanced bourbon that delivers exceptional value.

At Bourbon Awareness, you can learn more about America's native spirit. Bourbon Awareness and Whiskey University's sole mission is to educate the public about the history and virtues of Bourbon, Tennessee Whiskey, and other various whiskeys.

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