New Riff Distilling has unveiled its second annual Headliner release, featuring the oldest whiskeys in the distillery’s 11-year history. The limited edition blend sold for $150 per bottle when it became available August 1.
New Riff Distilling Blends 11-Year-Old Whiskeys for New Riff Headliner 2025
The 2025 edition combines five different whiskeys, with the foundation built on 11-year-old corn whiskey and bourbon from the distillery’s first batches. The 111-proof blend consists of 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. The whiskey is bottled without chill filtration.
Official tasting notes describe sweet maple syrup, candied dark fruit and rich leather on the nose. The palate offers corn sweetness balanced by fruity spice from the Balboa Rye. Extended aging adds vanilla and oak character throughout. The finish features mint-chocolate, spicy cinnamon candies and jammy fruits.
“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.”
New Riff Headliner 2025 Benefits Northern Kentucky Nonprofit
Proceeds from the limited release support Brighton Center, a Northern Kentucky nonprofit that helps individuals and families reach financial stability. The organization provides family support services, education, employment assistance, and leadership development.
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The Headliner series launched last year to celebrate New Riff’s 10th anniversary. This year’s release continues that tradition while establishing its own distinct profile. The whiskey was available exclusively through New Riff’s free Whiskey Club with a one-bottle-per-person limit. Bottles were pickup only at the distillery.
Limited edition screenprinted posters matching the bottle’s label design were also available online and at the New Riff Gift Shop starting August 1.
New Riff Distilling opened in 2014 in Newport, Kentucky. The distillery focuses on creating innovative whiskeys using traditional techniques combined with modern approaches. The annual Headliner release showcases the distillery’s range of aged spirits while supporting local charitable causes.
