Woodford Reserve released its 2020 commemorative Derby bottle. Created by Louisville artist Richard Sullivan, a former Atlanta Braves baseball player, the bottle depicts a watercolor image of thoroughbreds as they thunder toward the finish line, with the famed Twin Spires of Churchill Downs in the background. The 1-liter, Kentucky Derby bottle of Woodford Reserve Bourbon available nationwide for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $49.99. “There is a poetic beauty in this year’s bottle because Richard Sullivan, the human athlete, is celebrating the equine athlete,” said Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Chris Morris. Sullivan notes that his goal was to create a beautiful image of the Kentucky Derby that embodied the spirit of competition, dedication, and freedom that is required to “be your best.” Although the Kentucky Derby will not be taking place during its traditional time this year because of coronavirus, Woodford Reserve and Churchill Downs will host an at-home celebration that honors the tradition and pageantry of the Kentucky Derby while also raising up to $2 million for people impacted by the global pandemic. The day-long virtual experience will take place May 2, the original date for the annual race, which has been postponed to Sept. 5. A series of interactive virtual experiences, from Kentucky Derby Museum tours to Derby-inspired recipes are scheduled to air on Kentucky Derby’s official social media channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram— @KentuckyDerby). To further lift spirits and encourage safe and healthy at-home Derby celebrations, Woodford Reserve will join the at-home celebration with the following programming”

• 2 p.m. (ET) Bourbon, Horses & History: Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Chris Morris will demonstrate how to make the perfect Mint Julep while speaking about the history that connects thoroughbreds, bourbon and Derby. Assistant Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall, an expectant mother, will share her favorite mocktail recipes that are inspired by Derby cocktail classics. She also will share tips to enjoy the day with the entire family.
• 3 p.m. (ET) A Global Live Toast to Derby: Morris and McCall will join Derby fans for a toast to celebrate the First Saturday in May and look forward to the Sept. 5 Run for the Roses. The toast will be on Woodford Reserve’s YouTube Live channel.

The day’s virtual events also include Churchill Downs’ first-ever virtual horse race, The Kentucky Derby: Triple Crown Showdown. Beginning on April 30, fans will be able to visit www.KentuckyDerby.com to choose their favorite horse to win the virtual race and can join Churchill Downs in making a charitable donation to COVID-19 emergency relief efforts. Churchill Downs has pledged to match up to $1 million of donations, for a total potential donation of $2 million.