Woodford Reserve Bourbon Unveils 2024 Kentucky Derby Bottle
A thoroughbred horse races through roses on the label of Woodford Reserve’s latest collectible bottle.
Whether you’re watching live from the buzzing Churchill Downs grounds or your favorite recliner, a delicious cocktail—preferably the traditional Mint Julep—only enhances viewing of the “greatest two minutes in sports” that is the Kentucky Derby.
As the longtime official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby—the partnership will extend at least through 2027—Woodford Reserve is rolling out its annual commemorative bottle ahead of the 150th “Run for the Roses” on May 4.
For this year’s design, the Louisville, Kentucky-based distillery commissioned the stylings of fellow Bluegrass State native Wylie Caudill, an optimal choice considering that the rising artist is already known for compositions featuring bold, repeating patterns of flora, including roses.
As such, his painting “Adorned in Roses” depicts a thoroughbred covered with red roses and racing through a backdrop of multi-colored roses.
“As a Kentucky native, I am honored to be a part of this milestone celebration,” Caudill said. “I have painted my signature roses many times over the years, but this one is truly special. The colorful roses symbolize the diverse Derby fans from around the world, connecting people beyond the track.”
For the first time, Woodford Reserve’s Derby bottle artist is doing double duty as the official artist for Churchill Downs—a peak at Caudill’s Instagram account reveals his meticulous work painting several fiberglass horses, including a red-rose covered equestrian specimen named Shelby.
“Wylie’s artwork embodies the spirit of Woodford Reserve, the liveliness of Churchill Downs during race day, and the heart of Kentucky,” Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall said. “We’re thrilled to have a Kentuckian’s artwork on our bottle during this monumental year.”
Priced at $55 for a liter-sized bottle, the Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby bottle is available to purchase online at ReserveBar and the distillery’s website now.
