New Riff Releases 2026 Single Malt Whiskey
New Riff Distilling has announced its 2026 Single Malt Whiskey, available beginning May 15 at retailers nationwide.
The release marks the fourth edition in the distillery’s Single Malt series, which began with distillations shortly after the company’s founding in 2014. The distillery released the first batch in 2023.
“This is one of the most creative whiskeys we make, and a blend we look forward to revisiting every year,” says Master Distiller Brian Sprance. “These whiskeys are inspired by malted barleys used in the brewing industry, reimagined through our Kentucky regimen.”
The 2026 release includes six mashbills aged in five cask types. The blend also introduces Chevallier, a British heirloom malt variety from the 1800s, into a New Riff Single Malt for the first time.
New Riff distilled the whiskey using sour mash, open fermentation and a column still. The distillery filled barrels at 110 proof and aged them in Northern Kentucky.
The whiskey carries a suggested retail price of $69.99 per 750-ml. bottle. New Riff bottled it at 111.7 proof without chill filtration. The mashbill consists of 100% malted barley, including 11.7% Marris Otter, 14.1% Golden Promise, 27.7% Barleywine-style malt, 16.5% Belgian Quadrupel malt, 18% Scottish peated barley and 12% Chevallier malt.
The whiskey matured in new charred oak, de-charred toasted oak, used bourbon barrels, Spanish oloroso sherry casks and Pedro Ximenez sherry casks.
“This year, we were especially excited to introduce Chevallier malt into the blend, a variety that brings a distinct character and adds another layer to the overall profile,” Sprance says. “We’ve spent years working with a wide range of malts, and that experience is really shown through how this whiskey comes together. Each component can stand on its own, but the real magic is in how they interact, showcasing our expertise in blending and bringing all of those elements into balance.”
Sensory and Warehouse Manager Bryon Martin says the whiskey opens with oak and toast notes followed by dark fruit, cacao and smoky citrus aromas. He says the palate features fruit, sherry oak and peat smoke with an orange marmalade finish.
This new release will also be available online for shipping and pickup, and at the distillery gift shop.
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