New Riff Single Barrel Rye Whiskey Review.
New Riff is a distillery I’ve had the chance to visit a few times, and every trip has only strengthened my appreciation for what they’re doing. From releases like their Balboa Rye and Malted Rye to the newer eight-year bourbon, there’s a clear sense of intention behind their portfolio. While the eight-year rye didn’t fully hit the highs I was hoping for, it was still a respectable pour. This single barrel straight rye caught my attention when local Indiana store picks started popping up on sale, making it the perfect excuse to finally explore New Riff’s single barrel program.
This particular bottle carries an age statement of four years and four months, offering a bump in both proof and maturity compared to their standard bottled-in-bond rye. New Riff is refreshingly transparent with their production details, and this single barrel rye is no exception. The mash bill comes in at 95% rye and 5% malted rye, which effectively makes this a 100% rye whiskey using two styles of rye grain. It’s a mash bill that leans traditional on paper but leaves plenty of room for barrel influence and individuality, especially in a single barrel format.
As with any single barrel release, there’s always an understanding that variation is part of the experience. While there may be shared DNA with other barrels, each one brings its own personality to the glass.
Age Statement: 4 years 4 months old. (Single Barrel).
ABV: 53.55% (Barrel proof).
Mash bill: 95% rye and 5% malted rye.
Area of Distillation: Newport, Kentucky.
Appearance: Dark honey.
On the nose:
The nose opens with a sweet-spicy balance that immediately pulls you in. There’s plenty of rye grain character present, but it doesn’t come across youthful or sharp. Peppery spice mingles with herbal and lightly medicinal notes, all wrapped in a sweeter profile than expected. Vanilla buttercream stands out, along with caramel and a gentle toasted oak sweetness that almost suggests a toasted barrel influence. As it opens up, darker fruit notes begin to emerge, brushing up against underripe fig and a soft stone fruit character. Mint and wood sugars round things out beautifully, and the alcohol stays impressively well-integrated.
Taste:
The first sip is a surprise in the best way possible. Cherry explodes across the palate, reminiscent of maraschino or cocktail cherries, which is not something you expect to lead the charge in a nearly 100% rye whiskey. Alongside the cherry comes a wave of spice, including cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg, supported by oak spice and a touch of char-driven oiliness. Caramel and vanilla weave through the experience, giving the whiskey a cherries-and-cream quality that feels both indulgent and approachable.
Finish:
The finish is where the youth shows itself a bit more. It doesn’t cling or evolve as long as older rye whiskeys, but what’s there is still enjoyable. Light oak spice, gentle pepperiness, lingering caramel, and soft baking spices fade out cleanly. While it lacks extended complexity, it never feels thin or rushed.
Final Thoughts:
After checking the tasting notes listed on the bottle, which call out marshmallow, oak, and stone fruit on the aroma, followed by cherry and caramel on the palate, it’s clear this barrel was well-selected. While the marshmallow reads more like vanilla cream to my palate, the rest of the notes are right on the mark.
At the $29.95 sale price I paid, this bottle is an absolute no-brainer. Even at its typical $55–$60 price point, it holds its own as a solid single barrel rye that offers something a little different. It’s approachable, flavorful, and has enough sweetness and cherry-driven character to appeal to bourbon drinkers who may be rye-curious.
Rating: B (Above average).
Cost: $29.95 for 750ml.
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