Clyde May's 5 Year Single Barrel Bourbon

This bottle was a Christmas present from a relative who knows I appreciate single barrel selections. While preparing a standard single barrel select entry, I discovered that the Clyde May's brand offers many stated age selections, which is quite uncommon in American whiskey. Reviewing the detailed front label, I confirmed a barreling date but no bottling date, which seems questionable given the age statement. If so much detail is provided, all the relevant information should be included. Having previously heard mixed reviews about Clyde May's, and learning it originates from Bloomington, I was apprehensive, but I will give it a fair chance. The color is a bit darker than anticipated, resembling a 6 or 7-year-old bourbon, and the oak appears heavily charred. The initial aroma is potent ethanol, followed by fresh cherry, cinnamon, spearmint, a hint of mixed fruit (leaning towards banana), vanilla, and toasted oak. The aroma is typical, suggesting a high-rye blend, but with enough younger corn present to avoid being overly immature. The initial taste is slightly dry, but it quickly coats the mouth, though not deeply. There's a significant amount of rye, but the corn flavor fluctuates between fresh and the sweeter profile of a slightly aged spirit. All the aromas are present in the taste, with more barrel influence, offering sweetness that turns quite dry in the finish. After some aeration, a noticeable rye spice emerges in the finish. Overall, it's a rather plain but still enjoyable bourbon, offering little beyond barrel variation. While I'd be open to trying other barrels, it influences the price. If I were to purchase it, I'd consider $55 or less a reasonable price. It's a versatile bourbon suitable for neat enjoyment, mixing, or any other preparation, offering simple, consistent flavor.

Received as a present, I had no preconceived notions. It's not that gifts aren't appreciated; it's just that this wasn't something I was actively anticipating. I've tried the regular Clyde May's, and while I don't remember it vividly, I recall finding it acceptable. Distilled 02/03/17. Cask 642. Nose: Vanilla, butterscotch, and caramel. Cacao. Wood shavings. Dark tea. Citrus zest and lemon peel. Cooked sago. Nutty notes of almond and walnut. Pungent spice from black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and woody undertones. Palate: Butterscotch, vanilla, milk chocolate, rich fudge, and caramel. Nutty notes of almond and pistachio. Sweetness from golden raisins and cooked apples. Dried apricot. Sweetened tea. Soda. Cacao. Dark tea. Smoked tobacco. Spicy notes of black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and oak. Finish: Begins with a citrus burst, reminiscent of Sprite. Then comes pistachio and almond. Caramel and fudge follow. The same spicy profile of black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and oak concludes this experience. The finish lingers. This is a curious bourbon. The initial aroma set a modest standard for my anticipation, giving off a somewhat youthful scent. However, the taste represented a significant step up, and the conclusion was outstanding. The character is distinctive, especially regarding the finish. Nicely bottled at 51% ABV, and while it lacks a lengthy age statement, its inclusion is a welcome sight. The texture and lingering taste certainly suggested a more mature spirit. 4/5. For $46, this offers tremendous worth. Given it's a single cask, experiences might differ, but I endorse it based on this sample. I'm eager to sample more from Conecuh Ridge.

Nose: light apple and pear notes. A hint of vanilla extract and brown sugar. The aroma is light and dominated by sweet fruit. Very pleasant. Palate: caramel, brown sugar, and a subtle tobacco note. The finish is characterized by barrel spices. Finish: long and lingering, not a chest-warming sensation like a Kentucky hug, but a full-mouth persistence. Overall: Rated 4.25 out of 5 stars. This is a pick from the Smoking Barrels Bourbon Society club. Its drinkability is exceptional; it's very easy to consume. The subtle fruit and sugars combined with spice are very well balanced. I would strongly endorse any pick from the Clyde Mays group. 👏🏿👏🏿

This is the second time I'm pouring from this bottle. It's a VA ABC Store pick, bottled at 105 proof. I couldn't find the exact entry here, so this one seemed appropriate. On the nose, I detect some bubblegum followed by sweet corn. The initial taste is pleasantly toasted, then corn comes through. It's somewhat one-dimensional, lacking significant complexity. The burn is consistent but not overly prolonged.

Selected by the store: The nose doesn't offer much. The taste is somewhat woody with a subtle spice of some kind. There's a little warmth on the finish that lingers for a bit. All in all, a satisfactory drink. Nothing remarkable.

I sampled this with a small ice cube. A strong vanilla scent was present. Some lighter fluid on my hand interfered. It tasted of vanilla, apple, and pepper. It felt soft on the tongue. Delicious and complex.