Conecuh Ridge Distillery is moving closer to becoming a reality.

After a 2022 groundbreaking, the $13.5 million project, first announced in 2017, is currently in its second phase of construction. Slated to open next year in Troy, Conecuh Ridge Distillery will produce and bottle the award-winning Clyde May’s Whiskey. Clyde May’s is currently distilled in New York and the opening of the Conecuh Ridge Distillery will mark the brand’s homecoming to Alabama. The brand’s portfolio includes Clyde May’s Original Alabama Style Whiskey, Clyde May’s Straight Bourbon, Clyde May’s Straight Rye, and Clyde May’s Special Reserve Bourbon.

In addition to distilling, Conecuh Ridge (spread across 76 acres) will also house a visitor’s center and restaurant.

The distillery will open near the landmark where moonshiner Clyde May started his craft back in 1946.

READ: Everything you should know about Alabama’s Clyde May’s whiskey

In October, Conecuh Ridge named Tyler Huff, the former senior distiller of Nelson’s Green Brier, as manager of distillery operations. Huff will report to Conecuh Ridge vice president Steve May and direct all manufacturing activities related to distillation, bottling, warehousing, and maintenance operations at the distillery.

“My time at Nelson Green Brier has prepared me for this one-of-a-kind opportunity at Conecuh Ridge Distillery,” Tyler said in a press release. “Conecuh Brands is giving me the chance to build something great from the ground up. I am looking forward making the best whiskey possible, and then finding ways to make it even better.”