I had the pleasure of trying out some of the New Riff Maltster Bourbons. New Riff has been exploring different malted grains used in bourbon mashbills, and their Maltster line is a testament to their creativity and innovation.
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New Riff Maltster Bourbon Overview
As a whiskey enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting bourbons to try. Recently, I had the pleasure of trying the New Riff Maltster Bourbon, and I have to say, it did not disappoint.
Product History
New Riff is a relatively new distillery, having opened its doors in 2014 in Newport, Kentucky. However, despite its young age, the distillery has already made a name for itself in the bourbon world, thanks in part to its unique approach to distilling.
One of the ways that New Riff distinguishes itself from other distilleries is through its use of malted grains. The Maltster Bourbon line, in particular, is made using a mash of 65% corn, 30% malted rye, and 5% malted barley. This unique blend gives the bourbon a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from other bourbons on the market.
Price Range
The New Riff Maltster Bourbon is reasonably priced, with a suggested retail price of $50–70 per bottle. This puts it in the mid-range for bourbons, making it an accessible option for both seasoned bourbon drinkers and those who are new to the world of whiskey.
photo credit: www.newriffdistilling.com
Tasting Notes
Aroma
New Riff Maltster Bourbon has a complex aroma that offers a mix of sweet and spicy notes. The nose is dominated by the scents of sugarcane, cola, and plum. There is also a subtle hint of rye spice that adds to the complexity of the aroma.
Flavor
On the palate, the whiskey offers a unique flavor profile that is both vegetal and sweet. The vegetal notes are balanced by the sweetness of sugarcane and cola, creating a well-rounded flavor. The malted rye used in the bourbon gives it a buttery, smooth mouthfeel, which is nicely complemented by its softness.
Finish
The finish of New Riff Maltster Bourbon is long and lingering. The heat builds up slowly, and the spice notes become more prominent as the brighter elements subside. The finish is classic rye, with clove and muddled mint notes that leave a pleasant aftertaste.
Rating
Overall, I would rate New Riff Maltster Bourbon as a solid choice for whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate a complex flavor profile. The bourbon’s unique blend of sweet and vegetal notes, along with its buttery, smooth mouthfeel, make it a standout choice among other bourbons. I would give New Riff Maltster Bourbon a rating of 8 out of 10.
Mixing and Pairing
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Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing New Riff Maltster Bourbon, I find that it pairs well with a variety of mixers. However, I personally prefer to mix it with ginger beer or ginger ale. The spicy and sweet flavors of the ginger complement the bold and complex flavors of the bourbon, creating a delicious and refreshing cocktail.
Another great mixer for New Riff Maltster Bourbon is cola. The sweetness of the cola helps to balance out the strong flavors of the bourbon, creating a smooth and enjoyable drink.
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Cocktail Suggestions
If you’re looking for some cocktail ideas to try with New Riff Maltster Bourbon, here are a few of my favorites:
- Kentucky Mule: Mix 2 oz New Riff Maltster Bourbon, 4 oz ginger beer, and a squeeze of lime juice in a copper mug filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge.
- Bourbon and Cola: Mix 2 oz New Riff Maltster Bourbon and 4 oz cola in a highball glass filled with ice. Garnish with a cherry.
- Manhattan: Mix 2 oz New Riff Maltster Bourbon, 1 oz sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters in a shaker with ice. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a cherry.
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Food Pairings
New Riff Maltster Bourbon pairs well with a variety of foods, but I find that it goes particularly well with grilled meats and hearty stews. The bold flavors of the bourbon complement the rich and savory flavors of these dishes, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
If you’re looking for a specific dish to pair with New Riff Maltster Bourbon, I would recommend trying it with a grilled steak or a beef stew. The flavors of the bourbon will help to enhance the flavors of the meat, creating a truly delicious and memorable meal.
Conclusion
After tasting and analyzing the New Riff Maltster bourbons, I can say that they are a great addition to any whiskey collection. Each bourbon has its own unique flavor profile, making it a great choice for different occasions.
I highly recommend trying out the New Riff Maltster bourbons. They are a great representation of the quality and craftsmanship that New Riff Distillery puts into their products.
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