Next week, we’re launching a new podcast featuring New Riff Distilling. This week, we are hosting co-founder Jay Erisman for our Bourbon Lens Patreon Tasting Club. Don’t forget to join our Patreon, because it’s a great time. To prepare for tonight’s tasting, I am sitting down with Ol’ New Riff Bourbon. This is a special release just for the New Riff Whiskey Club, but our Patreon Tasting Club members are lucky to get a taste. Let’s dive into this heirloom-focused bourbon.
Ol’ New Riff Bourbon Facts:
- Style: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
- Mashbill: 60% Heirloom Corn, 26% Balboba Rye, 14% Two Row Malted Barely
- Proof: 100
- Age: 6 Years or older
- Barrel Technique: Barrels crafted in the 19th-century style underwent production without modern kiln-drying
- Price: $54.99
Ol’ New Riff Tasting Notes From Jake:
Nose: This is a very sweet nose, full of dessert like flavors. It starts with caramel and vanilla custard with a hints of lemon zest. As it opens up more, it turns more into baked apple pie with cinnamon and nutmeg. The nose really makes you want to take your first drink.
Palate: The baked apple pie continues onto the palate. Imagine taking a bite and the apple is covered in cinnamon. You get a little bit of that soggy pie crust at the bottom. This is what the first sip reminds me of. As I continue to drink, darker notes start to come up like chocolate, leather, and oak. As Jay Erisman frequently recommends, don’t be scared to add a drop of water to New Riff.
Finish: A slight hint of smoke, chocolate and salinity
Closing Thoughts
This whiskey has layers of flavor and, for only $54.99, is a steal at 6 years old. This makes me want to join the New Riff tasting club, but my wife would kill me! If you see it, try it!
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If you like cocktails, subscribe to our second podcast, Cocktails with Friends. Cocktails with Friends is hosted by our good friend and partner, Bob Cutler.
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