The Kentucky based New Riff Distilling has announced the re-release of its award-winning Sherry Finish Malted Rye.

New Riff Sherry Finish Malted Rye – 2026 Edition (58.7% ABV) is a six-year-old Kentucky Straight Malted Rye Whiskey, initially matured in American oak barrels before being finished in Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks.

First introduced in 2022, New Riff Sherry Finish Malted Rye was awarded Double Gold and named a “Best in Class” finalist in the Special-Barrel Finished Whiskey category at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

New Riff Sherry Finish Malted Rye – 2026 Edition is said to open with slowly developed notes of dark fruits, buttery sherry oak and a hint of vanilla, leading to a full-bodied, savoury and sappy mouthfeel, with malty grain and oak undertones. A final burst of brightening spices rounds out the clove, wood spice and fruit-forward finish.

Commenting on the launch, Brian Sprance, Master Distiller, said: “We’re not known for barrel finishing, which is exactly why we’re intentional about when and how we do it. Over the years, this release has become one of our favourites because it strikes a balance between something familiar and something unexpected. Bottling it at barrel proof gives the whiskey every opportunity to showcase its full flavour and character. We’re incredibly proud of how this year’s release turned out.”

New Riff Sherry Finish Malted Rye – 2026 Edition, will be available from August 28th through selected retailers in the US, for a RRP of $69.99.