First Impressions

New Riff Single Barrel Rye is a bold statement from one of Kentucky’s most exciting craft distilleries. With a 95% rye and 5% malted rye mash bill, bottled at barrel proof and non-chill filtered, this is rye whiskey with nothing to hide. Each barrel tells its own story, and at around 113 proof, it demands your attention from the first pour. The nose greets you with spicy rye, caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and dark fruit.

The Flavor Journey

On the palate, New Riff Single Barrel Rye delivers exactly what the nose promises. Peppery spice leads, followed by butterscotch, cinnamon, light vanilla, and subtle fruitiness. The high proof carries these flavors with conviction, and the non-chill filtration preserves a rich, oily mouthfeel that coats the palate. The finish is long and warming, with lingering spice and butterscotch sweetness that keeps calling you back.

Enjoyment Profiles

This rye is built for neat sipping at barrel proof, where you get the full single-barrel experience. A few drops of water open up sweeter notes and soften the heat without sacrificing complexity. On ice, it mellows beautifully while keeping its oak character. In cocktails, it makes an outstanding Old Fashioned where the barrel proof stands up to sugar and bitters with authority.

Value and Craftsmanship

At $50–$60 for a barrel-proof, single barrel, non-chill filtered craft rye, New Riff offers remarkable value. This is a grain-to-glass operation — they grow their relationships, they distill on site, and they let the barrels tell the story. With a Whisky Advocate score of 92, the critical community has taken notice.

Final Thoughts

New Riff Single Barrel Rye is everything a craft rye should be: bold, honest, and full of character. The 95/5 mash bill at barrel proof delivers a peppery, butterscotch-rich experience that stands among the best single barrel ryes at any price. A bottle worth seeking out and a distillery worth following.