New Riff Distilling Celebrates 11 Years with Headliner Encore.
New Riff Distilling marks its 11th anniversary with the return of its second annual Headliner release, a limited-edition whiskey blend showcasing innovation and craftsmanship. This 2025 release features four whiskeys, including two 11-year-old batches from the distillery’s inaugural distillations in 2014. Proceeds from bottle sales will benefit Brighton Center, a Northern Kentucky nonprofit dedicated to fostering financial stability and independence. For more information, visit newriffdistilling.com.
A Symphony of Flavors
Introduced in 2024 to celebrate New Riff’s 10th anniversary, the Headliner release returns with a bold new profile. Bottled without chill filtration at 111 proof, the 2025 edition blends 28% 11-year-old corn whiskey, 27% 11-year-old bourbon whiskey, 15% 10-year-old Balboa rye whiskey, 15% 10-year-old rye whiskey, and 15% 8-year-old Aroostook malted rye whiskey.“When I knew I had our entire inventory to work with, it was clear the oldest whiskeys we have ever made would be the stars of this blend,” said Master Distiller Brian Sprance. “So, I built the foundation with 11-year-old corn whiskey and 11-year-old bourbon from our very first distillations, then layered in expressive ryes like Balboa and Aroostook Malted Rye to bring bold spice and depth.”
Crafting a Complex Whiskey
Sprance likens blending this whiskey to fine-tuning a soundboard: “Blending something this complex is not difficult when you know the quality is there. It is more about fine tuning the balance, like adjusting levels on a soundboard,” said Sprance.
“If you know our whiskeys, you will recognize their individual voices, opening with the sweet, mellow tone of corn and finishing with the bold, spicy signature of Aroostook. The result is rich, layered, and deeply nuanced; a blend that captures our early spirit and how far we have evolved since. It is a complex whiskey that I think will challenge people in the best way.”
The whiskey’s aroma bursts with sweet maple syrup, candied pecans, and rich leather, driven by aged corn whiskey and bourbon. Sweet, oaky baking spices from the rye whiskeys and a hint of cocoa from Aroostook malted rye elevate the nose. On the palate, corn sweetness intertwines with Balboa rye’s fruity notes, while extended aging adds vanilla and oak depth. The finish lingers with mint chocolate, spicy cinnamon candies, and jammy fruits.
Supporting the Northern Kentucky Community
The 2025 Headliner release continues New Riff’s tradition of giving back, with proceeds benefiting Brighton Center’s family support, education, and employment programs.“At New Riff, we believe in giving our team the freedom, trust, and resources to create something extraordinary,” said President Mollie Lewis. “Since our founding in 2014, we have stayed committed to crafting innovative, world-class whiskey and supporting our Northern Kentucky community. This year, we are proud that proceeds from each bottle will benefit the Brighton Center.”
Release Details and Availability
The 2025 Headliner retails for $150 per 750ml bottle, with a limited number available exclusively through New Riff’s Whiskey Club, free to join at www.newriffwhiskeyclub.com. Sales begin Friday, August 1, 2025, at 11 a.m. EDT, with a one-bottle-per-person limit. Bottles are available for pickup only and cannot be shipped.Exclusive screen-printed posters featuring the unique label design will also be available in limited quantities online and at the New Riff Gift Shop starting August 1.
About New Riff Distilling
Founded in 2014 in Newport, Kentucky, New Riff Distilling blends time-honored sour mash methods with bold innovation. Independently owned, the distillery produces award-winning bourbon, rye, single malt whiskey, and gin, sourced from a mineral-rich alluvial aquifer. Its renovated public spaces include The Aquifer Tasting Room, offering signature cocktails and rare releases, and the Riff Shop with customizable gifts. New Riff’s private barrel selection program allows personalized quarter, half, and full barrel picks.
Learn More
Visit newriffdistilling.com for details on the 2025 Headliner release and New Riff’s portfolio. Join the Whiskey Club at www.newriffwhiskeyclub.com
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