Woodford Reserve releases $15K whiskey for Kentucky Derby

In honor of the 150th Kentucky Derby, Woodford Reserve has announced limited-release bottles of the “rarest whiskey” in the brand’s history.

Woodford Reserve, the presenting sponsor of the Kentucky Derby, is commemorating the 150th running of the race “with a unique and extraordinary expression of American whiskey,” according to a news release.

The thrice-barreled whiskey has aged in three casks, including the original bourbon barrel, a cognac cask, and a couture barrel with staves seasoned in the Kentucky Derby Winner’s Circle.

The rare resulting liquor is presented in a crystal decanter created by French Maison Baccarat. As a nod to the Garland of Roses, the crystal topper was infused with 24K gold to “create a striking red color.”

Only 150 bottles are available. The bottle, which arrives in a leather carrying case, costs $15,000.

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

The winning owner of the 2024 Kentucky Derby will be presented with a decanter during the Garland of Roses ceremony from Churchill Downs. One bottle will be donated to The Backside Learning Center, a charity that assists families who work on the backside of Churchill Downs caring for the thoroughbreds. The charity will auction off the bottle for fundraising.

A limited number of bottles are available for purchase on Woodford Reserve’s website, with 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.

Reach food and dining reporter Amanda Hancock at ahancock@courier-journal.com.

PROVIDED BY WOODFORD RESERVE Woodford Reserve has commemorated the 150th Kentucky Derby with a rare decanter and the “rarest whiskey” in the brand’s 27-year history.