Buffalo Trace vs New Riff: Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:49 pm

J Highland

J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.

Discover the differences between Buffalo Trace vs New Riff in this head-to-head comparison and decide which bourbon is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Buffalo Trace vs New Riff: Comparison

Buffalo Trace: A balanced and smooth bourbon with a welcoming aroma of caramel, cinnamon, and baking spices, complemented by a palate of caramel, vanilla, and oak. It finishes with a satisfying blend of vanilla and baking spice, making it a versatile choice for both neat sipping and rocks.

New Riff Bourbon: Offers a bold rye spice profile with notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel on the nose, leading into a palate rich in vanilla, caramel, and a complex rye spice. The finish is warm with oak and rye spice, showcasing its bottled-in-bond quality.

Verdict: “Buffalo Trace appeals to those seeking a smooth, accessible bourbon with a broad appeal, perfect for both newcomers and seasoned drinkers. New Riff Bourbon stands out for rye enthusiasts looking for a higher proof, complex bourbon with a robust flavor profile, making it a great option for cocktails or neat sipping.”, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Buffalo Trace Similar Whiskeys

Buffalo Trace: Unpacking the Smooth & Affordable Crowd-Pleaser

Nose: Caramel, cinnamon, baking spice, cereal
Palate: Caramel, vanilla, oak, espresso coffee, chocolate
Finish: Vanilla, baking spice, oak
Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
How to drink: Neat, rocks
Similar to: Uncle Nearest

Buffalo Trace, a bourbon heavyweight known for its accessibility and agreeable flavor profile, deserves a closer look. Buckle up for a sip-by-sip analysis:

Aroma: This bourbon welcomes you with subtle whispers of caramel, vanilla, and baking spices, like a comforting whiff of freshly baked cookies.

Taste: Prepare for a well-balanced tango of warming spices, toasted oak, and hints of juicy fruit. Caramel and vanilla swirl in, creating a smooth and approachable mouthfeel. Imagine a bourbon that’s easy to get along with, not aggressive or challenging.

Finish: The finale lingers decently, leaving echoes of rich vanilla and comforting baking spices. Not the longest finish, but satisfying nonetheless.

Verdict: This is a well-rounded, medium-bodied bourbon that shines as a sipper. The fruity and oaky character is pleasant and inviting, making it a crowd-pleaser without being mind-blowing. It shines on its own, no need for water or ice to dilute the experience.

Cocktail Corner: While Buffalo Trace is enjoyable neat, it might not be your first choice for mixed drinks. Its milder profile can get lost in bolder cocktail creations. Consider saving it for sipping and exploring other bourbons with punchier personalities for your next cocktail adventure.

Buffalo Trace Facts:

Mysterious Mashbill: The exact ratio of corn, rye, and malted barley remains a secret, adding to the intrigue.
Temperature Twists: Aging on the middle floors of the warehouse exposes the barrels to dramatic temperature shifts, influencing the bourbon’s depth of flavor.
Small Batch Blending: 40 carefully chosen barrels come together to create each batch, ensuring consistency.

Remember: Taste is subjective! While Buffalo Trace is a popular choice, it might not be everyone’s favorite. Explore the vast world of bourbon and find the one that truly sings to your taste buds. Cheers!

New Riff Bourbon: Rye Spice Symphony with a Balanced Appeal

Nose: Oak, rye spice, vanilla, caramel
Palate: Vanilla, caramel, rye spice, mint
Finish: Oak spice, rye spice, caramel
Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
Similar to: Bulleit Bourbon

New Riff Bourbon, crafted in Kentucky with dedication to tradition, promises a flavorful journey for rye spice enthusiasts. Let’s explore its essence:

Aroma: A welcoming blend of youthful oak and gentle rye spice. Imagine freshly baked caramel, vanilla, and hints of warming baking spices greeting your nose.

Taste: Dive into a creamy embrace, savoring notes of sweet vanilla and caramel alongside the prominent rye spice. A touch of refreshing peppermint and a hint of black pepper add complexity.

Finish: The experience lingers with a moderately long warmth, carrying notes of bitter oak spice, lingering rye spice, and a final touch of caramel sweetness.

Verdict: Enjoy this gem neat or explore its nuances further with a touch of water. It strikes a harmonious balance between warmth and rye spice, making it a delightful choice for those who appreciate characterful drams. While the finish might leave some craving more length, it remains a solid option for a well-rounded rye spice experience.

New Riff Facts:

Bottled in bond: Expect high quality and consistency.
4 years aged: Young yet promising.
3 non-GMO grain blend: 65% corn, 30% rye, and 5% malted barley for unique expression.
Non-chill filtered: Full-bodied character preserved.
Kentucky-crafted: Tradition meets innovation in this new distillery.

Remember, the world of whiskey is vast and taste is subjective. If you seek a rye-forward experience with balanced sweetness and warmth, New Riff might just become your new favorite exploration!