New Riff Distilling

New Riff Distilling

24 Distillery Way

Newport, KY

New Riff Distilling, located in Newport, Kentucky, was founded in 2014 by Ken Lewis with the vision of creating one of the world’s great small distilleries. They focus on producing bourbon and rye whiskeys that adhere to bottled-in-bond standards, ensuring authenticity and transparency. The distillery’s products are non-chill filtered, preserving the full flavor and aroma of the spirits. New Riff’s approach to distillation emphasizes high-rye mash bills and a dedication to crafting spirits from scratch, setting it apart in a competitive market. The distillery waited four years to release its first bourbon in 2018, showcasing its patience and focus on quality over speed. Recent expansions, including a $9 million investment to double barrel aging capacity and a $3 million renovation of its Newport facility, highlight its commitment to growth and customer experience. In 2024, New Riff underwent a leadership transition as founder Ken Lewis retired, with Hannah Lowen stepping in as CEO and Mollie Lewis as president. The distillery is also expanding its national footprint and releasing its oldest bourbon yet, an 8-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon.

The Distillery Story

New Riff Distilling, located in Newport, Kentucky, was founded in 2014 by Ken Lewis with the vision of creating one of the world’s great small distilleries. They focus on producing bourbon and rye whiskeys that adhere to bottled-in-bond standards, ensuring authenticity and transparency. The distillery’s products are non-chill filtered, preserving the full flavor and aroma of the spirits. New Riff’s approach to distillation emphasizes high-rye mash bills and a dedication to crafting spirits from scratch, setting it apart in a competitive market. The distillery waited four years to release its first bourbon in 2018, showcasing its patience and focus on quality over speed. Recent expansions, including a $9 million investment to double barrel aging capacity and a $3 million renovation of its Newport facility, highlight its commitment to growth and customer experience. In 2024, New Riff underwent a leadership transition as founder Ken Lewis retired, with Hannah Lowen stepping in as CEO and Mollie Lewis as president. The distillery is also expanding its national footprint and releasing its oldest bourbon yet, an 8-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon.