J.J. Corry The Sonas vs New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon 52.65%

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

J.J. Corry The SonasNew Riff Single Barrel Bourbon 52.65%
DistilleryJ.J. CorryNew Riff
Region
CountryIrelandAmerica
TypeBlendedBourbon
ABV50%52.7%
AgeNASNAS
Price£62.95£74.9
Rating5.00/5

J.J. Corry The Sonas

Smoke0/100
Sweetness75/100
Beginner75/100
Value79/100

New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon 52.65%

Smoke0/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner50/100
Value0/100

J.J. Corry The Sonas

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon 52.65%

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

J.J. Corry The Sonas is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

J.J. Corry The Sonas is better value at £63 vs £75.

For beginners: J.J. Corry The Sonas is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

J.J. Corry The Sonas

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon 52.65%

Pros

  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (52.7%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£74.9 vs £62.95)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Who should buy J.J.?

J.J. Corry The Sonas is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

Who should buy New?

New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon 52.65% is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Vanilla

Only J.J. Corry The Sonas

HoneyMalt ExtractOily

Only New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon 52.65%

ChocolateCooked FruitTobaccoToasted

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