Woodford Reserve Releases 2017 Kentucky Derby 143 Bottle

Woodford Reserve 2017 Kentucky Derby 143 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

“They’re at the gate.” Those words can only mean one thing. As the first Saturday in May approaches, it’s almost Kentucky Derby time. Horses and Kentucky bourbon have two things in common, limestone water. It’s said that Kentucky’s Limestone water is good for two things, making strong boned thoroughbred horses and bourbon. The two things are coming together once again as Woodford Reserve Distillery releases its 2017 Kentucky Derby commemorative bottle.

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The artwork on this year’s bottle brings back the same artist as last year with the return of award-winning equine artist Thomas Allen Pauly. The 2017 “Run for the Roses”™ bottle features his painting “Inspired” on the front of the bottle. The painting includes an elevated view as the thoroughbreds race to the finish line during the renowned Kentucky Derby. Additionally, a glimpse of the Twin Spires™ and colorful audience cheering in the grandstand can be seen. As the Official Artist of Triple Crown Winner – American Pharoah, Pauley is no stranger to Kentucky. American Pharoah’s permanent home is just around the corner from the Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, KY.

“Woodford Reserve is thrilled to partner with Thomas Allen Pauly for a second year,” said Mark Bacon, Woodford Reserve global brand director. “His ability to capture the excitement of a moment perfectly embodies the spirit of Woodford Reserve and the Kentucky Derby.”

The neck band features vibrant green and Woodford Reserve’s signature copper color with the Kentucky Derby 143 date and Thomas Allen Pauly’s signature sealing the top of the bottle. A hang tag provides details about the product and the artist.

“My inspiration for this year’s Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby bottle originated from a rare opportunity to photograph last year’s races from the roof of Churchill Downs,” said Pauly. “Although I have shot the Derby for the past 18 years, I have never had the privilege to shoot from that location. The moment I stepped onto the roof, I knew that this unique perspective of the iconic Twin Spires™ would make for a perfect Woodford Reserve Derby bottle painting.”

The commemorative liter-size bottle will be available nationwide on shelves in March. The suggested retail price is $43.99.