New Riff First Decade Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

Raise a glass to a decade of daring with New Riff First Decade Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey. Released in May 2025 by New Riff Distilling in Newport, Kentucky, this 120.5-proof (60.25% ABV) rye marks the distillery’s first 10-year-old rye expression. Crafted with a bold mashbill of 95% rye and 5% malted rye, inspired by MGP’s iconic recipe and refined under the guidance of Seagram’s legend Larry Ebersold, it’s blended from standout barrels aged 10 years in 53-gallon toasted and charred new oak, meeting Bottled-in-Bond standards. Non-chill filtered, it delivers a spicy, full-bodied profile that reflects New Riff’s innovative spirit since its 2014 founding by Ken Lewis.

Nose: Spearmint, dark raspberries, and spicy cinnamon burst forth, with hints of vanilla and oak. It’s a vibrant, rye-driven tease.

Palate: Rich and robust, with oak, plum, and tobacco leaf. Cinnamon spice and rye’s menthol-citrus swirl, creating a bold, silky texture.

Finish: Long and fiery, with lingering mint, peppercorn, and a touch of dark fruit, fading into a warm, spicy glow.

Pair this rye with smoked brisket—the spice loves the char. Want a bite? Try aged gouda; it lifts the fruit notes. For dessert, a raspberry tart echoes the nose’s berries. Feeling bold? Grilled lamb with a sage rub ties the finish into a Kentucky feast.