Woodford Reserve Returns With Its 2017 Kentucky Derby Bourbon Bottle

As the build up continues to the annual Kentucky Derby on May 6, yet another related whiskey offering has surfaced following on the heels of the Derby Festival tied Evan Williams bottling from Heaven Hill. This particular expression is nothing new in that it is the yearly associated Woodford Reserve release, but as always with this one it is more about the art on the bottle then the whiskey itself inside.

The 2017 Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby Bourbon bottle’s artwork is once again produced by equine artist Thomas Allen Pauly, who is now on his second piece. This go around it is his painting “Inspired” which is featured on the front of this bourbon, showcasing an elevated view as the thoroughbreds race to the finish line during the horse race.

Additionally, a glimpse of the Twin Spires and colorful audience fitting the grandstand can be seen.

Tied as well to this release is a neck band that 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 also 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 in a prepared statement. “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, noted Woodford Reserve, and it will have a price point of around $44.