New Riff Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey 750ml

New Riff Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a testament to the resurgence of traditional bourbon craftsmanship, combining old-world techniques with modern innovation. Presented in a 750ml bottle, this bourbon reflects the commitment of New Riff Distilling to creating high-quality, full-bodied whiskey that honors the rich history of Kentucky bourbon while embracing a forward-thinking approach.

The Legacy of Bottled in Bond

The “Bottled in Bond” designation is a hallmark of quality and authenticity in the world of American whiskey. Established by the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897, this certification was originally introduced to guarantee consumers that their whiskey was of a certain quality and purity. To qualify, the bourbon must be the product of a single distillation season, crafted by one distiller at one distillery, and aged for at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse. It must also be bottled at 100 proof (50% alcohol by volume).

New Riff has embraced this tradition, and their Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a perfect example of the meticulous attention to detail that goes into crafting a bottled-in-bond spirit. It’s not just a nod to the past but a commitment to maintaining the highest standards in bourbon production.

The New Riff Distillery: A Modern Bourbon Maker with Deep Roots

Located in Newport, Kentucky, New Riff Distilling was founded in 2014 by Ken Lewis, a visionary with a passion for whiskey and a desire to create something new and exciting in the bourbon world. Despite being a relatively new player in the industry, New Riff has quickly gained a reputation for producing exceptional spirits that resonate with both traditionalists and modern whiskey enthusiasts.

The distillery’s mission is to deliver a “new riff” on an old tradition, and their Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a shining example of how they achieve this. By focusing on quality over quantity and embracing the bottled-in-bond standards, New Riff ensures that each bottle of their bourbon is a reflection of their dedication to excellence.

A Distinctive Mash Bill

One of the key elements that sets New Riff Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey apart from others is its unique mash bill. Comprising 65% corn, 30% rye, and 5% malted barley, this high-rye recipe gives the bourbon a distinctive character that is both spicy and robust. The high rye content adds a peppery kick and complexity, making it a bourbon with depth and personality.

The use of non-GMO grains is another point of pride for New Riff. They source their grains locally whenever possible, ensuring that their bourbon not only supports local agriculture but also adheres to their strict quality standards.

The Aging Process: Patience and Precision

Aging is a critical component of bourbon production, and New Riff takes this process very seriously. Their Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey is aged for at least four years, but typically closer to five or six years, in new charred American oak barrels. These barrels are carefully selected and charred to a #4 “alligator” level, which means the inside of the barrel is heavily charred to create deep fissures resembling alligator skin. This intense charring process allows the whiskey to interact more deeply with the wood, extracting rich flavors and imparting the bourbon with its deep amber color.

The result of this aging process is a bourbon that is rich, complex, and full of character. It strikes a perfect balance between the sweetness of the corn, the spice of the rye, and the depth of flavors imparted by the oak barrels.

Tasting Notes: A Bourbon with Character

New Riff Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a sensory delight, offering a complex array of aromas and flavors that evolve with each sip. On the nose, you’ll encounter inviting notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, with hints of baking spices and a touch of mint from the high rye content.

The palate is where this bourbon truly shines. It opens with a burst of rich caramel and toffee, followed by the warm spice of cinnamon and black pepper. The rye adds a distinct spiciness that is balanced by the sweetness of the corn, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. As the bourbon lingers on your palate, you’ll notice layers of oak, dark chocolate, and a subtle smokiness that leads to a long, satisfying finish.

The finish is robust and warming, with the spice from the rye carrying through and mingling with the deep, oaky notes. It’s a bourbon that invites you to savor each sip, making it an excellent choice for sipping neat or with a splash of water.

Versatility in Enjoyment

While New Riff Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey is exceptional when enjoyed neat, it also lends itself well to classic bourbon cocktails. Its bold flavor profile stands up beautifully in an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan, where the spice and sweetness can shine through without being overpowered by other ingredients.

For those who appreciate a whiskey with depth and complexity, New Riff Bottled in Bond is a versatile option that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. Whether you’re sipping it by the fire on a cold evening or mixing it into your favorite cocktail, it delivers a rich, satisfying experience that is sure to please.

Conclusion

New Riff Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey is more than just a drink; it’s a statement of quality, tradition, and innovation. With its unique mash bill, meticulous aging process, and commitment to the bottled-in-bond standards, it offers a rich and complex bourbon experience that is both rooted in tradition and forward-looking. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or new to the world of whiskey, this bottle is a must-try, offering a “new riff” on what bourbon can be.