Woodford Reserve Releases Kentucky Derby 150th Baccarat Edition

by Phillip Galyean

Woodford Reserve, the Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby, commemorates the 150th running of the world’s most famous race with a unique and extraordinary expression of American Whiskey.

A tribute to 150 years of greatness, this is Woodford Reserve’s rarest whiskey in the brand’s 27-year history. This thrice-barreled American whiskey has rested in three unique casks – the original bourbon barrel, a cognac cask and a couture barrel whose staves were seasoned in the Kentucky Derby Winner’s Circle.

Presented in a crystal decanter created by the artisans of renowned French Maison Baccarat, only 150 bottles are available. Each is priced at $15,000 and arrives in a bespoke leather carrying case. To pay homage to the famed Garland of Roses, Baccarat infused the decanter’s crystal stopper with 24K gold to create a striking red color.

“This decanter embodies the spirit of Kentucky and the spectacle of Derby,” said Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall.

The winning owner of the 2024 Kentucky Derby will be presented with a decanter during the Garland of Roses ceremony. Additionally, one bottle is being donated by Woodford Reserve to charity – The Backside Learning Center, which assists families who work on the backside of Churchill Downs, caring for the thoroughbreds. The center will auction this rare bottle to raise funds for its programs.

A limited number of bottles are available now for purchase on Woodford Reserve’s website through two pick-up dates at the distillery.  Beginning March 28, a small number of bottles will also be offered for purchase at the distillery gift shop along with limited in-store availability at fine retailers in Kentucky.

Tasting Notes

Color: Carnelian Red

Aroma: Rich floral and red fruit notes sweetened with honey and textured with hearty oak and brown spices.

Taste: Brown sugar-caramelized citrus peel, rich toasted oak, caramel, warming spices and dried dark fruit.

Finish: Big and bold with a long smoothing fruit and spice presence.

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