Neighbors in greater Cincinnati have teamed up to create a whiskey that bridges two craft traditions. New Riff Distilling and Rhinegeist Brewing are rolling out DUET American Whiskey, a limited expression that combines a brewer’s approach to grain with a distiller’s patience. The mash bill is unusual for Kentucky: 57 percent malted barley, 37 percent raw barley and 6 percent rye, nodding to the grains that both breweries and distilleries handle daily.

Aging is equally unconventional. While much of the whiskey spent time in new American oak barrels, select portions rested in oloroso and Pedro Ximenez sherry casks, lending dried fruit and nutty tones. The final blend married together in a large foeder used for beer maturation before being re‑barreled into used bourbon casks to harmonise the flavors. The resulting spirit is aged at least six years and bottled at 111.2 proof, striking a balance between beer‑inspired complexity and bourbon structure.

The collaboration is rooted in long‑standing friendships—New Riff’s master distiller began his career as a brewer—and reflects the brands’ history of partnering with local makers. DUET American Whiskey will be released on April 10 at New Riff’s gift shop and at select retailers across Ohio and Kentucky, priced at $79.99.

For whiskey fans curious about how brewing and distilling can intersect, and for Cincinnati locals eager to support two hometown favorites, DUET offers a harmonised sip that captures the spirit of both scenes.