Woodford Reserve®, the Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby®, is honouring “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” with the release of its 2025 commemorative Derby bottle. This year’s special release celebrates the 151th running of the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports. This year’s bottle features the artwork of artist Humberto Lahera, known for his photorealistic paintings that blend classical techniques with contemporary influences. His painting, “Carrera Dinamica,” which translates to “Dynamic Race”, captures the energy of the Kentucky Derby with vivid colours, expressive brushstrokes and fluid motion, reflecting the spirit of the race. Woodford Reserve makes the perfect craft cocktails, including the classic Mint Julep and the Woodford Spire, featured at Churchill Downs on race day.
Nose: Heavy with rich dried fruit, with hints of mint and oranges covered with a dusting of cocoa faint vanilla and tobacco spice.
Palate: Rich, chewy, rounded and smooth, with complex citrus, cinnamon and cocoa Toffee, caramel, chocolate, and spice notes abound.
Finish: Silky-smooth, almost creamy at first, with a long, warm satisfying tail.
About Woodford Reserve
Woodford Reserve is situated among beautiful horse farms - in fact, it’s one of the only places in Kentucky where you can see the state’s two most famous products – Bourbon whiskey and thoroughbred horses – maturing side-by-side. The art of making fine bourbon first took place on the site of the Woodford Reserve Distillery, a National Historic Landmark, in 1812. You get that sense of history. The history of bourbon is the history of Kentucky, is the history of the United States.
We believe the World's Finest Bourbon is crafted through a unique blend of time, patience, science, and art. For years, this philosophy has been championed by our Master Distillers, Chris Morris and Elizabeth McCall, who have been instrumental in driving innovation and shaping the very essence of Woodford Reserve.
In 2023, Elizabeth McCall stepped into the role of Master Distiller, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective. Now, as Master Distiller, she continues to push the boundaries of flavor and craftsmanship.
With this transition, Chris Morris has moved into a revered role as Master Distiller Emeritus, where his invaluable insights will continue to inform and inspire. Together, Chris and Elizabeth ensure every drop of Woodford Reserve is a true spectacle for the senses.
Elizabeth McCall is the Master Distiller for Woodford Reserve, overseeing quality and innovation and leading special releases, including the Master’s Collection and Distillery Series. She is a Certified Specialist of Spirits (CSS).
McCall has a master’s degree from the University of Louisville and began her career as a member of Brown-Forman’s Research and Department in 2009.
McCall was a Master Taster and Assistant Master Distiller before being named master distiller in February 2023.
She interacts one-on-one with consumers through personal barrel selections and education on sensory methodology and works to define the quality sensory standard to which every batch of Woodford Reserve must comply.
Elizabeth and her husband, Matt, have one daughter and a dog, Beasley.
45.2% ABV
100cl / 1 Litre
