Five Minute Fridays(FMF):New Riff Balboa Rye 95.5 Review: Creamy, Fruity, and a Rye to Watch in 2026

In this episode of The Bourbon Lens, Jake Lewellen takes a closer look at New Riff’s Balboa Rye 95.5, a standout rye whiskey that showcases the distillery’s continued innovation and quality. Jake breaks down the tasting notes, highlighting a creamy, fruity nose followed by a balanced palate of sugary citrus and peppery rye spice.

This rye delivers a smooth yet flavorful experience, making it an excellent pour to kick off the year. Beyond the glass, Jake discusses why New Riff is a distillery to watch in 2026, pointing to their creative releases, thoughtful mash bills, and increasing use of older age statements that continue to elevate their portfolio.

If you’re a rye whiskey fan or curious about emerging trends in American whiskey, this episode is a must-listen.

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Key Takeaways

• New Riff Balboa Rye 95.5 delivers a creamy, fruity, and well-balanced rye profile
• The nose offers soft fruit and cream notes
• The palate balances sugary citrus with classic rye pepper spice
• Balboa Rye 95.5 is an approachable yet flavorful rye whiskey
• New Riff continues to stand out through innovation and quality
• Older age statements position New Riff as a distillery to watch in 2026

Soundbites

• “A creamy, fruity rye that really stands out.”
• “This is a great way to start the year.”
• “New Riff is absolutely one to watch in 2026.”

Keywords

New Riff, Balboa Rye 95.5, Rye Whiskey Review, New Riff Distillery, Rye Whiskey, American Rye, Craft Whiskey, Whiskey Podcast, Whiskey Tasting Notes, Bourbon Lens, Whiskey 2026 Trends