American Single Malt 2026

About

New Riff releases a fresh take on American single malt each year, with the mashbill and cask strategy shifting annually. The 2026 expression blends six barley varieties—including the heritage Maris Otter and a barley-wine-style malt—aged for at least seven years across five cask types: new oak, ex-bourbon, and two styles of sherry. Bottled at 117.7 proof, it represents a bold departure from conventional American malt whiskey. Master Distiller Brian Sprance calls this "one of the most creative whiskeys we make, and a blend we look forward to revisiting every year." The whiskey marries Kentucky's sour mash tradition—open fermentation, column still—with the disciplined craft of Scotch malt production, creating something genuinely original. On the nose: dark fruit, cacao, and smoky citrus. The palate delivers honeycomb, chocolate, vanilla, and a light oak tannin. The finish lingers with floral notes and honey. This is a bold, unapologetic dram—the interplay of six grains and five cask types creates density and complexity that rewards slow sipping.

Flavour Profile