Clyde May's 9 Year Old Cask Strength Straight Rye is a limited, one-time bottling from the Official State Spirit of Alabama: a straight rye aged a minimum of nine years in ex-bourbon barrels and bottled non-chill filtered at 113 proof (56.5% ABV).
The whiskey is distilled from a mash bill of 91% rye and 9% malted barley, giving it a prominent backbone of spice. After its long maturation it was finished for an additional four months by steeping American oak, French oak and cherry wood into the whiskey, a wood-finishing technique Conecuh Brands developed for this release. The three woods add a medley of fruit, caramel and vanilla to the rye.
The story of Clyde May's began in 1946 with Clyde May, a legendary Alabama moonshiner whose whiskeys became the stuff of Southern folklore. When it came to making a special batch, Clyde preferred to work with rye because of the spice it gave the spirit, and this release honours that legacy.
Expect notes of oak, coffee beans and vanilla over that rye spice, with fruit and caramel from the wood finish. At cask strength it is bold, so a little water helps it open.
A one-time bottling with a story, it is a fine gift for rye collectors.
Tasting Notes
-
Character: Prominent rye spice with oak, coffee beans and vanilla.
-
Wood finish: Fruit, caramel and vanilla from American oak, French oak and cherry wood.
-
Strength: 113 proof, non-chill filtered.
Specifications
-
Producer: Clyde May's Whiskey (Conecuh Brands)
-
Style: Straight Rye Whiskey, cask strength
-
Mash Bill: 91% rye, 9% malted barley
-
Age: Minimum 9 years in ex-bourbon barrels
-
Proof / ABV: 113 proof (56.5% ABV)
-
Cask / Finish: 4 months with American oak, French oak and cherry wood
-
Region: Alabama, United States
-
Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat and add a little water to tame the heat. It pairs with smoked brisket, pecan pie or a cigar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mash bill?
91% rye and 9% malted barley.
How was it finished?
Four months steeped with American oak, French oak and cherry wood.
What proof is it?
113 proof, bottled non-chill filtered.
Explore more in our Rye collection.
