Newport, Kentucky’s New Riff Distillery has brought back a fan favorite again. First introduced in 2022 and building on the distillery’s exploration of malted rye whiskey, New Riff’s 2026 Sherry Finish Malted Rye pairs its rye whiskey with a sherry cask finish. Following its initial maturation in New Riff barrels, the whiskey is transferred to oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks for additional maturation.
“We’re not known for barrel finishing, which is exactly why we’re intentional about when and how we do it,” said Master Distiller Brian Sprance. “Over the years, this release has become one of our favorites because it strikes a balance between something familiar and something unexpected. Bottling it at barrel proof gives the whiskey every opportunity to showcase its full flavor and character. We’re incredibly proud of how this year’s release turned out.”
Bottled at 117.3 proof and aged 6 years, Sherry Finish Malted Rye is comprised of 100% Malted Rye and finished in oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. It opens with slowly developed notes of dark fruits, buttery sherry oak and a hint of vanilla leading to a full-bodied and savory, sappy mouthfeel with malty grain and oak undertones present. A final burst of brightening spices rounds out a clove, wood spice and fruit-forward finish.
Sherry Finish Malted Rye has a suggested MSRP of $69.99 and will be available for purchase at the distillery gift shop, for online shipping and at select retailers across New Riff’s national distribution network
