Woodford Reserve®, the Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby®, has once again captured the excitement of “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®” with its highly anticipated 2025 commemorative Derby bottle. This year, the bourbon house partners with celebrated artist Humberto Lahera, whose photorealistic style blends classical techniques with a modern flair.
Humberto Lahera’s artwork, “Carrera Dinamica” – meaning “Dynamic Race” – perfectly encapsulates the exhilarating energy and fluid motion of the Kentucky Derby. With vivid colors and expressive brushstrokes, Lahera’s work captures both the elegance of the race and the intensity of competition. Born in Cuba and now a proud resident of Louisville, Kentucky, his unique background adds an enriching layer of cultural fusion to this collectible release.
The one-liter bottle, priced at $49.99, is set to become a coveted item among bourbon aficionados and Derby enthusiasts worldwide. It’s available for purchase on ReserveBar starting today, with additional availability at the Woodford Reserve Distillery and the official online store beginning March 5.
Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall expressed her admiration for Lahera’s work:
“Humberto’s ability to blend rich colors and movement perfectly captures the excitement and tradition of the Kentucky Derby. His work brings a unique perspective to this celebrated moment.”
Humberto Lahera’s artistic journey began in Holguin, Cuba, where he was among the select few to attend Cuba’s prestigious El Alba Academy of Fine Arts. Graduating Cum Laude, Lahera later became a professor before establishing his own design company. Since relocating to the United States in 2022, he has become a recognized name in Kentucky’s vibrant art scene.
For Lahera, creating the Derby bottle design was a profound honor. “Being selected as the artist for this year’s Derby bottle is an incredible honor. My work is deeply influenced by my Cuban heritage and my journey as an artist in Kentucky. For this design, I wanted to capture the exhilarating motion of the race and the elegance of the horses.”
Since its debut in 1999, Woodford Reserve’s Derby bottle has grown into an annual collector’s item that bridges the worlds of fine bourbon and high art. As the Kentucky Derby approaches, this latest release not only celebrates the storied traditions of the race but also marks a vibrant fusion of cultural artistry and American heritage.
