New Riff Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon Review: A 100 Proof Bottled-in-Bond Style Bourbon with Heritage Corn Character
Introduction
New Riff Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a distinctive limited-release bourbon that celebrates one of Kentucky’s historic heirloom corn varieties. Bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV) and typically priced around $56, this Kentucky Straight Bourbon offers whiskey enthusiasts the opportunity to experience how grain selection influences flavor. Rather than relying solely on traditional yellow dent corn, this expression showcases Blue Clarage corn, an heirloom variety once widely grown in Kentucky but rarely used in modern bourbon production.
Produced by New Riff Distilling in Newport, Kentucky, this bourbon reflects the distillery’s commitment to innovation while remaining firmly rooted in traditional Kentucky whiskey-making practices. New Riff has built a reputation for producing bottled-in-bond style bourbons and rye whiskeys that emphasize quality ingredients, high-rye mash bills, and patient maturation.
Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon combines classic bourbon sweetness with deeper grain character, balanced oak influence, and refined spice. Its approachable 100-proof bottling provides enough richness for experienced whiskey drinkers while remaining accessible to those looking to explore premium Kentucky bourbon.
This comprehensive review covers the history of New Riff Distilling, the significance of Blue Clarage corn, production methods, tasting notes, aroma, flavor profile, finish, food pairings, advantages, disadvantages, possible side effects, and whether this unique bourbon deserves a place in your collection.
The History of New Riff Distilling
A Modern Kentucky Distillery with Traditional Values
Founded in 2014 in Newport, Kentucky, New Riff Distilling was established with a simple philosophy: produce authentic Kentucky whiskey without shortcuts. Although relatively young compared to many historic Kentucky distilleries, New Riff quickly earned respect by focusing on bottled-in-bond production standards, non-chill filtration, and carefully selected ingredients.
The distillery emphasizes transparency, craftsmanship, and experimentation with heritage grains, allowing bourbon enthusiasts to experience different expressions that highlight the influence of specific corn varieties, rye percentages, and barrel maturation.
Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon is one of the distillery’s most distinctive releases, paying tribute to Kentucky’s agricultural history while delivering a modern premium bourbon experience.
What Makes Blue Clarage Corn Special?
A Historic Kentucky Heirloom Grain
Blue Clarage corn is an heirloom variety that was once commonly cultivated throughout Kentucky before modern hybrid corn became dominant. Compared with standard yellow dent corn, Blue Clarage is prized for its unique flavor contribution and historical significance.
When used in bourbon production, Blue Clarage corn is often associated with:
- Richer grain sweetness
- Enhanced caramel notes
- Fuller mouthfeel
- Gentle nuttiness
- Added complexity
While the aging process and barrel influence remain major contributors to bourbon flavor, heirloom grains like Blue Clarage offer enthusiasts a chance to explore how raw ingredients shape the final whiskey.
Product Specifications
Basic Information
Whiskey Type
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery
New Riff Distilling
Expression
Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Proof
100 Proof
Alcohol by Volume
50% ABV
Style
Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Bottle Size
750 ml
Average Price
Approximately $56
Availability
Limited Release
Bottle Presentation
New Riff maintains a modern yet elegant bottle design that reflects its contemporary approach to Kentucky whiskey.
The bottle features:
- Tall premium glass bottle
- Distinctive New Riff label
- Blue Clarage designation
- Proof information
- Kentucky Straight Bourbon identification
- Clean and professional presentation
Its minimalist appearance emphasizes craftsmanship rather than elaborate packaging.
Production Process
Heritage Grain Meets Traditional Bourbon Making
New Riff Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon is produced using carefully selected heirloom Blue Clarage corn combined with traditional bourbon production methods.
The whiskey is:
- Distilled in Kentucky
- Made using Blue Clarage heirloom corn
- Aged in new charred American oak barrels
- Non-chill filtered
- Bottled at 100 proof
These production methods preserve the whiskey’s natural oils, texture, and grain character while allowing the toasted oak influence to complement the bourbon’s sweetness.
Aroma
Rich, Sweet, and Grain-Forward
The nose opens with inviting aromas that immediately highlight the bourbon’s balance.
Primary aromas include:
- Caramel
- Vanilla bean
- Honey
- Fresh corn sweetness
As the whiskey develops in the glass, additional aromas emerge:
- Brown sugar
- Toasted oak
- Cinnamon
- Roasted pecans
- Apple
- Orange zest
- Light floral notes
- Baking spices
- Maple syrup
The aroma feels warm, approachable, and distinctly Kentucky.
First Sip
The first sip introduces a rich wave of sweetness balanced by gentle spice.
Initial flavors include:
- Vanilla
- Caramel
- Honey
- Butterscotch
These sweeter flavors gradually transition into:
- Cinnamon
- Black pepper
- Toasted oak
- Nutmeg
The Blue Clarage corn appears to contribute a rounded grain sweetness that complements rather than dominates the overall profile.
Mid-Palate
As the bourbon evolves, additional flavors become noticeable.
These include:
- Maple syrup
- Toasted almonds
- Milk chocolate
- Roasted pecans
- Brown sugar
- Dried cherries
- Baking spices
- Light leather
The whiskey develops steadily, maintaining balance between sweetness, spice, grain, and oak.
Finish
The finish is medium to long and pleasantly warming.
Lingering flavors include:
- Vanilla
- Toasted oak
- Cinnamon
- Caramel
- Black pepper
- Cocoa
- Roasted nuts
The oak slowly fades while the caramel and grain sweetness remain on the palate.
Mouthfeel
Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon offers a satisfying texture.
It feels:
- Medium to full-bodied
- Smooth
- Slightly creamy
- Rich
- Well-rounded
The non-chill filtration helps preserve body while enhancing the whiskey’s overall mouthfeel.
Flavor Profile Breakdown
Sweet Notes
- Vanilla
- Caramel
- Honey
- Butterscotch
- Brown sugar
- Maple syrup
Fruit Notes
- Apple
- Orange zest
- Dried cherries
Spice
- Cinnamon
- Black pepper
- Nutmeg
- Baking spices
Oak
- Toasted oak
- Charred wood
- Light leather
Nutty Notes
- Roasted pecans
- Almonds
- Walnut
Dessert Notes
- Milk chocolate
- Cocoa
- Toffee
The Impact of 100 Proof
At 100 proof, this bourbon delivers an ideal balance of flavor concentration and drinkability.
Advantages of the proof include:
- Fuller aroma
- Richer mouthfeel
- Better flavor definition
- Pleasant warmth
- Excellent versatility
A few drops of water may reveal additional notes of:
- Vanilla cream
- Pear
- Floral honey
- Citrus blossom
The whiskey remains balanced while becoming even more approachable.
Best Ways to Enjoy New Riff Blue Clarage Bourbon
Neat
The best way to appreciate the influence of the heirloom corn and the bourbon’s layered complexity.
With a Splash of Water
Water softens the spice while revealing additional sweetness and fruit.
On a Large Ice Cube
A slow-melting cube gradually opens the whiskey without overwhelming its character.
Classic Bourbon Cocktails
Its balanced profile also works well in premium cocktails, including:
- Old Fashioned
- Manhattan
- Boulevardier
- Whiskey Sour
Food Pairings
This bourbon pairs beautifully with hearty meals and desserts.
Cheese
- Sharp cheddar
- Gouda
- Gruyère
- Colby Jack
Meat
- Smoked brisket
- Ribeye steak
- Barbecue pork
- Roast chicken
Desserts
- Pecan pie
- Apple pie
- Bread pudding
- Chocolate brownies
- Cheesecake
Snacks
- Candied pecans
- Roasted almonds
- Dark chocolate
- Salted caramel popcorn
Advantages
Unique Heirloom Corn Character
Blue Clarage corn provides a distinctive grain-forward sweetness not commonly found in modern bourbons.
Kentucky Craftsmanship
Produced entirely in Kentucky using traditional whiskey-making methods.
Excellent Balance
Sweetness, spice, oak, and grain flavors work together harmoniously.
Smooth 100-Proof Bottling
Provides flavor intensity without excessive heat.
Non-Chill Filtered
Retains more natural oils and mouthfeel.
Fair Premium Pricing
At approximately $56, it offers strong value for a limited-release Kentucky bourbon.
Disadvantages
Limited Availability
Blue Clarage releases can be difficult to find outside select markets.
Subtle Differences
Drinkers expecting a dramatically different flavor solely from the heirloom corn may find the distinctions more nuanced than dramatic.
Younger Brand Recognition
New Riff is still establishing the long history enjoyed by many iconic Kentucky distilleries.
Batch Variations
Limited releases may show slight differences between production batches.
Possible Side Effects
New Riff Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon contains 50% alcohol by volume (100 proof) and should be consumed responsibly.
Excessive alcohol consumption may result in:
- Dizziness
- Impaired judgment
- Slower reaction time
- Reduced coordination
- Dehydration
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue the following day
To minimize these effects, drink responsibly, stay hydrated, and consume bourbon with food.
Individuals who are pregnant, have liver disease, take medications that interact with alcohol, or have been advised by a healthcare professional to avoid alcohol should not consume this product.
Who Should Buy New Riff Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon?
This bourbon is an excellent choice for:
- Kentucky bourbon enthusiasts
- Fans of heirloom grain whiskey
- Collectors of limited releases
- New Riff supporters
- Bourbon drinkers seeking something unique
- Those looking for a premium bottle under $60
Its balanced proof and approachable flavor profile make it suitable for both experienced enthusiasts and curious newcomers.
How It Compares to Other Bourbons in Its Price Range
In the $50–60 category, New Riff Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon stands out because of its emphasis on heritage grain rather than simply increasing proof or barrel influence. While many similarly priced bourbons focus on bold oak or heavy spice, this expression highlights a softer grain sweetness complemented by caramel, vanilla, baking spices, toasted oak, and roasted nuts.
Its non-chill filtered presentation and carefully crafted profile provide a richer mouthfeel than many standard 100-proof bourbons, making it an appealing option for drinkers who appreciate subtle complexity and ingredient-driven character.
Is New Riff Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon Worth the Price?
At approximately $56, New Riff Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon offers excellent value for those interested in exploring premium Kentucky bourbon made with heirloom corn. The combination of thoughtful production, balanced flavor, limited availability, and historical agricultural significance creates a bottle that offers both educational interest and enjoyable sipping.
Whether purchased for a tasting, a collection, or regular enjoyment, it delivers a quality experience that justifies its price.
Final Verdict
New Riff Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon is an outstanding example of how heritage ingredients and careful craftsmanship can produce a bourbon that feels both traditional and innovative. Its aromas of caramel, vanilla, honey, toasted oak, maple syrup, and baking spices lead into a palate featuring butterscotch, roasted pecans, dried cherries, milk chocolate, and gentle oak, all supported by the rounded sweetness associated with Blue Clarage corn.
The 100-proof bottling provides enough body and intensity for experienced bourbon enthusiasts while remaining approachable for newer drinkers. Combined with its non-chill filtered presentation, balanced finish, and unique heirloom grain story, this limited release offers something genuinely different within the crowded premium bourbon market.
For bourbon lovers in Kentucky and throughout the United States seeking a distinctive, well-crafted whiskey around the $56 price point, New Riff Blue Clarage Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a highly recommended bottle that successfully blends Kentucky heritage, modern innovation, and exceptional drinkability.
