New Riff Distilling is releasing the second iteration of its Headliner series in celebration of eleven years of whiskey-making. Made with proceeds going to benefit a Kentucky-based nonprofit, this complex blend features four expertly selected whiskeys.
New Riff Headliner
The 2025 Headliner release was made with four whiskeys. This includes two of the first batches distilled by New Riff 11 years ago. This 111-proof whiskey is made up of 28% 11-year-old corn whiskey, 27% 11-year-old bourbon whiskey, 15% 10-year-old Balboa rye whiskey, and 15% 8-year-old Aroostook malted rye whiskey.
According to the brand, the result is a memorable, multi-layered whiskey that begins with a nose of sweet maple syrup, candied fruit, sweet corn, and fresh leather. The palate is filled with flavors like corn, fruity spice, vanilla, and oaky wood. The finish is long, lingering, and warm, and ends with a mix of cinnamon, chocolate, and “jammy fruits.”
“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,” Master Distiller Brian Sprance says.
“So, I built the foundation with 11-year-old corn whiskey and 11-year-old bourbon from our very first distillations, then layered in expressive ryes like Balboa and Aroostook Malted Rye to bring bold spice and depth.”
Where can I buy it?
New Riff is only releasing a limited number of bottles of Headliner Whiskey. It will be available to purchase on Friday, August 1st, through New Riff’s Whiskey Club for the retail price of $150. Proceeds from this whiskey will benefit Brighton Center, a Northern Kentucky nonprofit.