Woodford Reserve, the venerable distillery renowned for its exquisite bourbon, has unveiled a masterpiece to mark the grandeur of the 150th Kentucky Derby. This historic occasion is being commemorated with an unparalleled offering: a limited-edition, thrice-barreled American whiskey that epitomizes the pinnacle of craft and luxury.
Crafted with unparalleled precision and finesse, this exceptional whiskey has been aged in three distinct casks, each contributing its own unique character to the final product. The journey begins in the traditional bourbon barrel, where the spirit matures with rich, oak-infused flavors. From there, it ventures into a rare cognac cask, imparting layers of sophistication and depth. Finally, a couture barrel, seasoned in the hallowed grounds of the Kentucky Derby Winner’s Circle, adds a touch of prestige and exclusivity.
To encapsulate this extraordinary whiskey, Woodford Reserve has partnered with the legendary French Maison Baccarat, synonymous with the artistry of crystal craftsmanship since its inception in 1764. The result is a breathtaking crystal decanter, a true marvel of design and elegance. Adorned with intricate detailing and precision-cut facets, the decanter stands as a testament to the uncompromising dedication of both brands to perfection.
Adding to its allure, the crystal stopper of the decanter has been infused with pure 24K gold, a symbol of opulence and prestige. This infusion of gold creates a mesmerizing red hue, paying homage to the iconic Garland of Roses, the symbol of victory and excellence synonymous with the Kentucky Derby.
Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall, the visionary behind this extraordinary creation, describes it as an embodiment of Kentucky's spirit and the spectacle of the Derby itself. Indeed, every element of this masterpiece speaks to the heritage, tradition, and unparalleled craftsmanship that define both Woodford Reserve and the Kentucky Derby.
With only 150 bottles available worldwide, each priced at $15,000, this rare offering is destined to become a prized collectible among connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. Beyond its exceptional quality and rarity, the whiskey also carries a noble cause. One bottle will be presented to the winning owner of the 2024 Kentucky Derby during the esteemed Garland of Roses ceremony, while another will be generously donated to The Backside Learning Center, a charitable organization supporting the families who work tirelessly behind the scenes of Churchill Downs.
For those fortunate enough to acquire a bottle, options for purchase include Woodford Reserve’s website, with select bottles available for pickup at the distillery on designated dates. Additionally, a limited number of bottles will be made available at the distillery's gift shop starting March 28, offering enthusiasts a chance to secure their piece of history.
As the anticipation builds for the 150th Kentucky Derby, Woodford Reserve's rare whiskey and crystal decanter stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of this iconic event, blending tradition with innovation to create an experience truly worthy of celebration.
Tasting Notes (Brand Provided)
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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About Woodford Reserve
Woodford Reserve is a premium bourbon whiskey brand that has earned widespread acclaim for its commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and innovation. Produced by the Brown-Forman Corporation, Woodford Reserve is crafted at the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery located in Versailles, Kentucky. The distillery's roots date back to the late 1700s, making it one of the oldest bourbon distilleries in the United States.
Woodford Reserve is renowned for its meticulous production process, which adheres to traditional bourbon-making techniques while embracing modern innovations. The brand's mash bill consists of a blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, carefully selected to impart a balanced and complex flavor profile to the whiskey. The distillation process takes place in copper pot stills, and the whiskey is aged in new charred oak barrels, allowing it to develop rich flavors and aromas over time.
One of Woodford Reserve's signature expressions is its flagship Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This bourbon is characterized by its smoothness, depth of flavor, and notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. In addition to its core range, Woodford Reserve offers a variety of other expressions, including Double Oaked, Rye, and limited-edition releases, showcasing the brand's versatility and creativity.
Woodford Reserve is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship, implementing practices to minimize its environmental impact and conserve natural resources. The distillery's picturesque grounds and visitor center welcome guests from around the world, offering guided tours and tastings that provide insight into the whiskey-making process and the history of Woodford Reserve.
With its rich heritage, dedication to quality, and innovative spirit, Woodford Reserve has earned numerous awards and accolades, cementing its reputation as one of the premier bourbon brands in the world. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, Woodford Reserve offers a luxurious and unforgettable drinking experience for bourbon enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
