This barrel selection was done offsite, which is not the norm for New Riff. New Riff rarely allows offsite picks, because they are very focused on ensuring those making barrel selections experience the barrel selection process theyve carefully curated based on years of making selections themselves. Their onsite barrel selection process is one of the absolute best in the industry.

So with our three barrel samples in hand, we began tasting. It was quickly apparent that all three barrels were really good, but also very different from one another - a consistent and positive quality weve noticed about New Riff.

Maybe New Riff sent us three really special barrels? Maybe we just got lucky? Well never know for sure. But ultimately the one we selected was unlike any other New Riff bourbon weve had so far. Deep rich notes of dark fruit and tobacco throughout, we found it very pleasing and different from the norm. The idea that kept coming up as we tasted it - this would be perfect with a cigar. It was an easy choice and possibly the best New Riff barrel we\'ve ever had.

TastingNotes

• Nose: The nose is comprised of leather, tobacco, dark fruit, and seasoned oak inviting you in for more. A fantastic display of aromas.
• Palate: An immediate dose of sugary sweetness is followed by tobacco, cigar box, dark fruit, and leather. These flavors combine with aged oak to form a complex, yet the balanced array of flavors.
• Finish: A pop of rye spice at first, followed by lingering aged oak turning a bit dry towards the end.
• Overall: An incredibly rich and unique tasting bourbon. A true standout. With notes of tobacco throughout, its quite possibly a quintessential bourbon to pair with a cigar.