Celebrating 11 years of crafting world-class whiskey, New Riff Distilling announces the return of its second annual Headliner release. The 2025 limited edition features four whiskeys, including two from the first batches distilled 11 years ago. Proceeds from the release will benefit Brighton Center, a Northern Kentucky nonprofit. For more information, visit newriffdistilling.com.
The 2025 Headliner release showcases New Riff’s commitment to innovation and creativity. First released last year in celebration of the distillery’s 10th anniversary, this year’s release builds on that legacy, continuing the tradition yet offering a profile that shines in its own spotlight.
“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,” said Master Distiller Brian Sprance. “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.”
This year’s edition is bottled without chill filtration at 111 proof and features a chorus of 28% 11-year-old corn whiskey, 27% 11-year-old bourbon whiskey, 15% 10-year-old Balboa rye whiskey, 15% 10-year-old rye whiskey and 15% 8-year-old Aroostook malted rye whiskey.
“Blending something this complex is not difficult when you know the quality is there. It is more about fine tuning the balance, like adjusting levels on a soundboard,” said Sprance. “If you know our whiskeys, you will recognize their individual voices, opening with the sweet, mellow tone of corn and finishing with the bold, spicy signature of Aroostook. The result is rich, layered, and deeply nuanced; a blend that captures our early spirit and how far we have evolved since. It is a complex whiskey that I think will challenge people in the best way.”
This release hits all the right notes — on the nose, sweet maple syrup, candied dark fruit and rich leather jump from the glass, brought forward by well-aged corn whiskey and bourbon —but balanced by sweet, oaky baking spices from the rye whiskeys, and a touch of cocoa from our Aroostook Malted Rye. Then, it is complex from the get-go on the palate, as corn sweetness is countered by Balboa Rye’s signature fruity spice. The extended aging of each component adds layers of vanilla and oak character throughout the palate. A lengthy finish brimming with mint-chocolate, spicy cinnamon candies, and jammy fruits.
This year’s release continues the Headliner tradition of supporting local charitable causes, with proceeds from bottle sales benefiting Brighton Center. Brighton Center partners with individuals and families to help them reach financial stability and independence through family support services, education, employment and leadership.
“At New Riff, we believe in giving our team the freedom, trust, and resources to create something extraordinary,” said President Mollie Lewis. “Since our founding in 2014, we have stayed committed to crafting innovative, world-class whiskey and supporting our Northern Kentucky community. This year, we are proud that proceeds from each bottle will benefit the Brighton Center.”
The 2025 Headliner release will retail for $150 per bottle. A limited number of bottles will be released, and they will be available for purchase on Friday, Aug. 1, at 11 a.m. EDT through New Riff’s Whiskey Club, which is free to join at www.newriffwhiskeyclub.com. There is a limit of 1 bottle per person. Bottles will be available for pickup only and cannot be shipped.
Exclusive screenprinted posters matching the unique label design will also be available in limited quantities online and in the New Riff Gift Shop on Aug. 1.