Clyde May’s Straight Bourbon Whiskey
75cl / 46%
£89
| Country | usa |
| Region | n/a |
| Established | 2014 |
| Owner | Conecuh Brands LLC. |
| Type | Bourbon |
| Number of stills | n/a |
| Visitor center | Yes |
| Status | Active |
| Phone | n/a |
Conecuh Ridge Distillery, based in New York, is known for producing "Clyde May's Alabama Style Whiskey," which pays homage to the legendary Alabama moonshiner Clyde May. The distillery has announced plans to consolidate operations in Troy, Alabama, near where Clyde May originally produced his famous moonshine whiskey. Groundbreaking for the new facility took place in 2022.
The history of Conecuh Ridge Whiskey begins with Clyde May, a World War II veteran who started producing moonshine in the 1950s near Almeria, Alabama. Known for its high quality, May’s moonshine was crafted using meticulously fabricated equipment and extra production steps to ensure purity. Some of his product was aged in charred barrels with dried apples, producing a unique flavor known as "Christmas Whiskey."
Following Clyde May's death in 1990, his son Kenny May sought to legalize and commercialize his father's recipe. In 2002, 4,000 bottles of Conecuh Ridge Whiskey were produced by Kentucky Bourbon Distillers, Ltd., using Conecuh Ridge spring water. The whiskey was aged, bottled, and distributed primarily in Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida.
In 2004, the Alabama Legislature designated Conecuh Ridge as the official "State Spirit" of Alabama. However, Kenny May faced legal troubles later that year, pleading guilty to multiple violations of Alabama liquor laws, which led to a temporary halt in production and distribution.
Conecuh Ridge Distillery underwent significant changes in leadership and ownership in the late 2000s. In March 2009, it was acquired by Spirits Acquisition Corp. In 2014, an investment group led by James Ammeen recapitalized the company, expanding its market reach both domestically and internationally.
In 2017, Conecuh Ridge Distillery announced plans to build a new distillery in Troy, Alabama, close to Clyde May’s original moonshine operations. This move aimed to consolidate operations and bring the production process closer to its roots. L.C. May, Clyde May’s grandson, joined the company as the National Brand Ambassador, reinforcing the family heritage behind the brand.
Conecuh Ridge Whiskey, marketed as "Clyde May's Alabama Style Whiskey," is renowned for its quality and distinctive flavor. It is a high-quality aged moonshine whiskey that reflects the traditional methods used by Clyde May.
Conecuh Ridge Whiskey continues to be celebrated for its unique history and quality. Despite legal and operational challenges, the brand has maintained its status as Alabama’s official state spirit and has expanded its presence in various markets. The distillery's move to Troy, Alabama, marks a significant step in honoring the legacy of Clyde May and his contributions to American whiskey.
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75cl / 46%
£89
About Glenbotal
The idea of Glenbotal came to us naturaly: as whisky lovers, we were always on the lookout for new experiences in the whisky world. That’s why we created Glenbotal and became our very own first customers. We buy unique and hard to find spirits from auctions, ballots, and private collections. Then, we share them with a small circle of friends and people who can appreciate a good dram.
