Overview
New Riff Distilling in Newport, Kentucky, is an independent, family-owned whiskey distillery known for bottled-in-bond bourbon, rye whiskey, single barrels, malted rye, single malt, and gin. Located near the Ohio River across from Cincinnati, New Riff helped make Northern Kentucky an important destination for modern whiskey tourism.
The distillery’s identity is built around Kentucky tradition with a modern “new riff” approach: high-rye recipes, bottled-in-bond standards, no chill filtration, single barrel selections, and experimentation beyond bourbon.
History
New Riff was founded in 2014 by Ken Lewis, the entrepreneur behind The Party Source, with Jay Erisman as a key co-founder and whiskey voice. The distillery opened during a period when craft and independent whiskey producers were proving they could compete on quality, transparency, and visitor engagement.
Ken Lewis later announced a succession plan, and the company entered a new leadership era while emphasizing its independent, family-owned identity. New Riff’s early bottled-in-bond releases helped establish credibility because the whiskey had to reach at least four years of age before release.
Ownership and Operations
New Riff remains independent and family owned. The company’s public materials emphasize Kentucky tradition, curiosity, and quality. Its production program includes bourbon, rye, malted rye, single malt, and gin, with whiskey releases often presented without chill filtration.
The distillery uses Newport-area infrastructure and promotes an aquifer connection in its visitor storytelling. Specific mash bills and age statements should be verified by expression because New Riff continues to expand into older and more experimental releases.
Brands Produced
Major expressions include New Riff Bottled in Bond Bourbon, New Riff Bottled in Bond Rye, Single Barrel Bourbon, Single Barrel Rye, 8 Year Old Bourbon, 8 Year Old Rye, Malted Rye, Kentucky Single Malt, and Kentucky Wild Gin.
Visitor Experience
New Riff offers tours, tastings, the Aquifer Tasting Room, gift shop, single barrel experiences, and specialty classes. The official experience page lists several tour formats, including Bonded, Happy Hour, Barrel Proof, and blending experiences. Reservations are recommended.
Why This Distillery Matters
New Riff matters because it became a benchmark for independent Kentucky whiskey in the modern era. It proved that a younger distillery could build trust through bottled-in-bond standards, clear production choices, and strong rye and single barrel programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is New Riff Distilling located?
It is located in Newport, Kentucky.
Who founded New Riff?
New Riff was founded by Ken Lewis, with Jay Erisman as a key co-founder.
Is New Riff independent?
Yes. New Riff describes itself as an independent, family-owned distillery.
Does New Riff offer tours?
Yes. Public tours, tastings, classes, and specialty experiences are available by reservation.