New Riff Distillery
History of New Riff Distillery
New Riff Distilling was founded by Ken Lewis in Newport, Kentucky. His vision was to create a distillery that focuses on producing high-quality whiskey with an emphasis on authenticity and tradition. Lewis’s passion for distilling and his commitment to excellence have been the driving forces behind the distillery’s success.
Independent and Family-Owned
New Riff Distilling is an independent family-owned business. This independence allows them to maintain their high standards and focus on what they do best: producing exceptional whiskey. Their dedication to quality and authenticity has earned them a prominent place in the world of spirits.
Awards Won by New Riff Distillery
Double Gold Medal for New Riff 6-Year-Old Malted Rye Whiskey at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Gold Medal for New Riff Kentucky Sour Mash Single Malt Whiskey at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Gold Medal for New Riff Bottled in Bond Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
New Riff Distillery Tour Information and Experience
Bonded Tour
The Bonded Tour offers a comprehensive 45-60 minute journey through New Riff Distillery, covering fermentation, distillation, and barreling. It includes a tasting of various spirits, such as New Riff Bourbon and Single Barrel bourbon. The tour costs $20 per person and provides a $10 gift shop token for purchases over $25.
Barrel Proof Tour
This tour, available twice a month, explores the West Newport Whiskey Campus, including the barrel warehouse and bottling hall. Guests can taste bourbon directly from the barrel. The tour costs $35 per person and includes a $10 gift shop token.
WHSKY NRD
A monthly class series priced at $55 per person, WHSKY NRD offers an engaging experience with stories and tastings led by brand ambassadors, highlighting the distillery’s history and production process.
Blend
Participants can create their own Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey blend in this hands-on experience. Priced at $90 per person, the event includes tasting and blending three individual barrels.
The Hits: A Guided Tasting Experience
This 30-minute tasting session, available for $25, features four New Riff whiskey expressions led by a brand ambassador, focusing on flavor, aroma, and the story behind each spirit.
Flask & Barrel Review of New Riff Distillery
I recently toured New Riff Distillery, and as a whiskey collector, I’ve seen my fair share of distilleries. This place truly stands out! The Bonded Tour was incredibly informative, covering everything from fermentation to barreling. I loved the tastings, especially the Single Barrel bourbon. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience even better. I also appreciated the $10 gift shop token. The blend-your-own bourbon experience was a unique touch. Overall, I’d give it a 4.7/5 – almost perfect, just wish the tour was a bit longer! Highly recommend for whiskey enthusiasts.
What To Do Nearby New Riff Distillery
Newport Aquarium (0.7 miles)- Visit the Newport Aquarium to explore a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, alligators, and sea turtles. The aquarium features a coral reef tunnel and interactive exhibits like petting stingrays, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Purple People Bridge (0.5 miles) – Take a scenic walk across the Purple People Bridge, a pedestrian-only bridge connecting Newport to Cincinnati. Enjoy stunning views of the Ohio River and the city skyline, perfect for photos and a leisurely stroll.
BB Riverboats (0.7 miles) – Experience Newport from the water with BB Riverboats. They offer various cruises, including sightseeing, romantic dinner cruises, and family-friendly excursions. The Dixieland Jazz Brunch Cruise is a favorite, featuring delicious brunch dishes accompanied by live jazz music.
Festival Park (0.6 miles) – Relax at Festival Park, located along the banks of the Ohio River. It’s an ideal spot for picnicking, and during the summer, you can enjoy local events like the Newport Italian Fest and River Fest, which feature food, games, and fireworks.
Newport on the Levee (0.8 miles) – Spend the day at Newport on the Levee, a bustling entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, a movie theater, and a video arcade. It’s a great place to enjoy a variety of activities, from shopping to dining and entertainment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near New Riff Distillery?
Chart House: This restaurant has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Located at 405 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071, it offers a fine dining experience with American seafood dishes. It’s well-known for its waterfront views and elegant ambiance. For reservations, you can reach them at (859) 261-0300.
Buckhead Mountain Grill: With a 4.4-star rating, Buckhead Mountain Grill is located at 35 Fairfield Ave, Bellevue, KY 41073, approximately 0.2 miles from New Riff Distillery. This restaurant features American cuisine with a cozy, lodge-like atmosphere. Contact them at (859) 491-7333 for reservations.
Hofbräuhaus Newport: Rated 4.5 stars, this German-inspired eatery is just 0.5 miles from the distillery at 200 E 3rd St, Newport, KY 41071. Hofbräuhaus offers a wide selection of German beers, hearty dishes, and a lively, traditional beer hall atmosphere. For reservations, call (859) 491-7200.
What hotels are near New Riff Distillery?
Hampton Inn & Suites Newport/Cincinnati: This hotel has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Located at 275 Columbia Street, Newport, KY 41071, it offers amenities like free hot breakfast, WiFi, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. For reservations, you can reach them at +1 859-415-0678.
Aloft Newport on the Levee: This hotel has a 4.5-star rating. It is located at 201 E 3rd St, Newport, KY 41071, providing modern accommodations with an urban vibe. The hotel features a fitness center and is pet-friendly. For reservations, call +1 859-916-5306.
Residence Inn Cincinnati Downtown/The Phelps: With a 4.6-star rating, this hotel is located at 506 E 4th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202. It provides spacious suites, a rooftop bar, and complimentary breakfast. For reservations, you can call +1 513-651-1234.