A Celebrated Return for Red Turkey Wheat Bourbon.
New Riff Distilling, a fiercely independent Northern Kentucky distillery, announced the re-release of its acclaimed Red Turkey Wheat Kentucky Straight Bourbon on August 8, 2025. This rare wheated whiskey, crafted with heirloom Red Turkey Wheat, marks its first re-release in four years. Available in limited quantities across New Riff’s national footprint starting August 15, this bottled-in-bond bourbon is priced at $59.99 for a 750mL bottle. For more details or to order online (where available), visit www.newriffdistilling.com.
Heirloom Grains, Historic Flavors
New Riff’s commitment to unique mashbills shines through in this release, which uses Red Turkey Wheat, a 19th-century varietal preserved by farmers, artisan bakers, and distillers. The distillery first began working with this grain in 2016, with its inaugural 2021 release earning gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Barleycorn Awards.
“We’ve worked with heirloom grains since the beginning at New Riff, and Red Turkey Wheat is a great example of our continued exploration into unique, historic ingredients,” said Master Distiller Brian Sprance. “Red Turkey Wheat, which dates back to the 1870s, brings deeper flavors and aromas that you don’t often find in modern grain varieties. Today, it’s being preserved by farmers, artisan bakers, and distillers, and we’re proud to be part of that effort through our whiskey.”
Tasting Notes and Craftsmanship
The Red Turkey Wheat Bourbon, made with a mash bill of 70% corn, 25% Red Turkey Wheat, and 5% malted barley, is aged for at least five years and bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV). Sprance describes its profile as vibrant and complex:
- Nose: Grainy and bready, with clove-studded orange, praline, confection, dark fruit, and citrus notes.
- Palate: Chewy, remarkably zesty, and citrusy, with moments of dark stewed fruits, moderate sweetness, and well-balanced black cherry skin into the finish.
- Finish: Exceptionally long, with nutty grain character, bright citrus, and dark fruit skin.
This release delivers a unique flavor profile, distinct from modern wheated bourbons, thanks to the heirloom grain’s higher protein and richer depth.
Nationwide Availability and How to PurchaseBeginning August 15, 2025, Red Turkey Wheat Bourbon will be available at select retailers nationwide, the New Riff distillery in Newport, Kentucky, and for online shipping through the distillery’s website (where permitted). Priced at $59.99, this limited-edition release is expected to sell out quickly due to its rarity and accolades. Join the New Riff Whiskey Club for early access to such seasonal releases.
About New Riff Distilling
Since 2014, New Riff Distilling has redefined Kentucky whiskey traditions with its innovative, sour mash, bottled-in-bond approach. Located in Newport, Kentucky, the distillery sources water from a mineral-rich alluvial aquifer via a 100’ deep private well, enhancing its award-winning bourbon, rye, single malt whiskey, and gin. New Riff’s portfolio includes single barrel selections and a popular private barrel program. The distillery’s renovated public spaces, including the Riff Shop and The Aquifer Tasting Room, offer customizable gifting and exclusive tastings of rare releases.
Listen to Bourbon Lens on your favorite podcast app or stream on Spotify. If you’d like to support Bourbon Lens, join our Patreon, sign up for our “Weekly Pour” Newsletter, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Recent Bourbon Lens Coverage
- Rebel Bourbon & NASCAR’s Richard Childress Racing Extend Partnership for 2026
- Bardstown Bourbon Company Launches Bold Packaging Redesign Across Core Portfolio
- New Riff Balboa Rye Review: A Creamy, Fruity Rye to Watch in 2026
- Exploring the World of Whiskey and Bourbon on Bourbon Lens’ “Thursday Thoughts”
- Maker’s Mark Unveils New Premium Bottle and Age Statement for Cask Strength Bourbon
- 366: From r/bourbon to Middleburg Barrel Company with Jay West (T8ke)
