Getting into the Talladega “Spirit”

by Dixie Haag | Posted on Saturday, April 30th, 2016

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This week’s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series is racing in the GEICO 500 at Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama. At the superspeedway there will be Clyde May’s Alabama style Whiskey flowing. The Clyde 240 Tower Tavern will be open at Talladega Superspeedway all weekend. According to the Talladega Superspeedway website, the tavern’s opening made sense:

“The partnership with Talladega Superspeedway is particularly resonant for Clyde May’s, because we have a similar origin,” said Roy Danis, chief executive officer, Conecuh Ridge Distillers. “Stock car racing was invented by moonshine runners who used fast cars to escape the law. Clyde May himself was an Alabama farmer and a moonshiner who dodged the law himself a few times. We are now the Official State Spirit of Alabama, and Talladega is arguably the most famous venue in the state, so a partnership like this just made sense.”

I figure, as the old English proverb says, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do”, so I bought a bottle myself and decided to try out this Alabama style whiskey in honor of the GEICO 500. I know, I know. . .I’m willing to make all kinds of sacrifices in the name of racing!

So, if you’re interested in joining me, there are a few recipes on the Clyde May’s Website. I am sticking to the more traditional drinks of Alabama Coffee, Alabama Whiskey Sour and Alabama Whiskey and Coke, but there are many gourmet whiskey recipes available on the website if you’re interested in something more adventurous!

Cheers!

Alabama Coffee coffee

1 oz Clyde May’s Alabama style Whiskey

1 teaspoon sugar

6 oz. black coffee

cream

Stir the whiskey and sugar together until dissolved. Add black coffee and stir. Float the cream on top (by pouring slowly over inverted spoon) or mix it all together. Enjoy!

sour Alabama Whiskey Sour