The Courier-Journal (Louisville)
Woodford Reserve’s salute to the race
Commemorative 2024 derby bottle has been released
With two months until the historic 150th Kentucky Derby, Woodford Reserve, the presenting sponsor of the Kentucky Derby, has released its 2024 commemorative bottle featuring artwork by a Kentucky native.
The unveiling took place Tuesday at Churchill Downs where “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” will take place this year on Saturday, May 4.
This year’s special release celebrates the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby and features the artwork of Wylie Caudill, known for his bold, repetitive patterns, and signature roses. His painting, “Adorned in Roses,” depicts a racing thoroughbred covered with red roses, with a background of multicolored roses.
“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.”
Caudill grew up drawing and painting in Cynthiana, Kentucky. During college, he spent his free time creating chalk drawings, leaving his mark around campus and leading to his title ‘chalk guy’ among locals. He expanded his public street art to painting murals in Lexington after college, and many of his murals can be seen across Kentucky today. Caudill also created the Official Art of the Kentucky Derby for Churchill Downs for the 150th Derby, marking the first year that Woodford Reserve and Churchill Downs have used the same artist.
“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.”
Woodford Reserve’s Derby bottle has been an annual collector’s item anticipated by bourbon and racing fans since 1999. The 2024 Woodford Reserve bottle retails for $55 and is available for purchase globally. A special presale on ReserveBar begins March 5.