Newport’s New Riff Distilling is launching a $3 million renovation project which will revamp the distillery’s public areas.
The redesign includes adding a new gift shop to the first floor and an event space on the third floor, which will be home to The Aquifer, New Riff’s tasting and cocktail bar.
“As New Riff’s popularity has grown, people are looking to share in the experience, whether that be through our tours, tastings, unique events or by having a drink at The Aquifer, which we’ve long outgrown,” said Vice President of Operations Hannah Lowen in a press release. “This renovation will create comfortable, inviting spaces for conversation, education or simply enjoying the product we all love.”
The third floor will provide The Aquifer with views of the Cincinnati skyline from the rooftop patio. A new reservable private room can be reserved for community gatherings.
On the first floor, the new welcoming station and pre-tour waiting area will greet visitors upon entering the space.
“We’re looking forward to having a bit more room to both introduce new enthusiasts to our products as well as geek out with the most knowledgeable fans,” Lowen said.
Renovations are set to begin in April, but the distillery will still remain open for visitors looking for tours and tastings. The Aquifer’s relocation efforts are set to kick off in July. Renovations on the first floor are projected to finish in late summer, while the third floor renovations are projected to finish by the end of the year.
New Riff has hired Schumacher Dugan as the project’s general contractor, as well as Platte Architecture + Design, Luminaut, HAWA Inc, KLH Engineers, Goodfire Design and Durham Studios.