Balboa Rye is back! Don’t miss your opportunity to grab this award-winning whiskey next Friday starting at 11 am.
Newport, KY (Jan. 23, 2025) – New Riff Distilling proudly announces the highly anticipated rerelease of its acclaimed Balboa Rye, a whiskey crafted with heirloom grains that has earned multiple awards since its debut in 2019. Known for its innovative spirit and deep respect for tradition, New Riff invites whiskey enthusiasts to rediscover this distinctive rye whiskey starting Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, at 11 a.m. EST.
“Balboa Rye holds a special place in our hearts and in the story of New Riff, as it’s the first whiskey ‘riff’ that we created with an heirloom grain,” said Jay Erisman, co-founder and vice president of New Riff Distilling.
What Makes Balboa Rye Special?
At the heart of Balboa Rye is the use of Balboa rye, an heirloom grain popular in the 1940s and once a staple in the region. Thanks to its collaboration with a trusted local farmer, New Riff has reintroduced this unique rye to whiskey production—making it one of the few, if not the only, distilleries to use this grain.
Bottled at 100 proof without chill filtration and boasting a mashbill of 95% Balboa rye and 5% malted rye, this whiskey delivers a truly exceptional flavor profile.
Tasting Notes:
- Aroma: Spiced red fruit and clove.
- Flavor: Hints of pure rye bread, black and white pepper, and horehound candy.
- Finish: A bold presence of pink peppercorn and a smooth rye-forward finish.
Accolades and Recognition
Balboa Rye has been recognized for its extraordinary quality, earning several prestigious awards, including:
- Best Rye and Double Gold at the 2020 Barleycorn Awards.
- Double Gold at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
- Additional gold and double gold medals from other major competitions.
Availability and Pricing
Balboa Rye is priced at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $54.99. Whiskey fans can purchase it starting Jan. 31, 2025, at select retailers within New Riff’s distribution network and through the distillery’s website where shipping is available. Limited quantities will also be available at the New Riff Distillery in Newport, Kentucky.
A Legacy of Innovation at New Riff
Since its founding in 2014, New Riff has championed a balance between time-honored methods and bold innovation. From its sour mash techniques to its strict adherence to bottled-in-bond standards, the distillery continues to deliver exceptional whiskeys while experimenting with unique ingredients like Balboa rye.
Located in Northern Kentucky, New Riff sources its water from a 100-foot-deep private well, providing mineral-rich water ideal for whiskey making. The distillery also offers a variety of experiences, including private barrel selections, rare spirit releases, and visits to its popular Aquifer Tasting Room.
Plan Your Visit or Learn More
Fans of whiskey are encouraged to visit the distillery to purchase Balboa Rye, enjoy tastings, and explore the range of products New Riff has to offer. For more information on the release of Balboa Rye or to explore New Riff’s innovative approach to whiskey, visit www.newriffdistilling.com.
About New Riff Distilling
New Riff Distilling is an independent, family-owned distillery located in Newport, Kentucky—often referred to as the gateway to bourbon country. Since 2014, the distillery has focused on crafting award-winning bourbons, ryes, single malts, and gin, using both traditional methods and experimental approaches.
The distillery includes:
- The Riff Shop: Featuring customizable gifts and artisan goods.
- The Aquifer Tasting Room: Offering signature cocktails, whiskey flights, and pours of the distillery’s exclusive releases.
New Riff also boasts a thriving private barrel selection program, allowing fans and collectors to purchase quarter, half, and full barrels with personalized labels.
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