BourbonBlog.com continues our Kenyucky Derby coverage for Louisville today as an annoucmenet at Churchill Downs takes place. Woodford Reservet ells us that the Kentucky Derby’s annual Woodford Reserve $1,000 Mint Julep charity program celebrates the 50th anniversary of Secretariat’s historic win.
Starting April 13, 150 limited-edition cups are available for purchase, with all proceeds benefiting the Secretariat Foundation, established by Mrs. Penny Chenery to support thoroughbred and equine-related industries.
The 149th Kentucky Derby is set to take place on Saturday, May 6, 2023, signifying that we are just one year away from celebrating the momentous 150th anniversary of this iconic race in 2024.
Cups must be collected on Derby Day at the $1,000 Mint Julep Experience in the paddock of Churchill Downs. Handmade by Louisville-based jeweler From the Vault, the cups feature Secretariat’s blue and white checkered silks design in sapphires, engravings of 1973 and 2023, and are available in silver ($1,000) and gold ($3,500). Gold cup buyers will have their names engraved on the bottom and receive Secretariat Jockey Ron Turcotte’s autograph.
This year’s mint julep recipe (featured below) includes Woodford Reserve Bourbon, chestnut liqueur, mint, and Virginia bluebell flowers, honoring Secretariat’s chestnut coat and birthplace. Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall said, “The money raised from this charity program will help ensure the impact of Secretariat is told for many years to come.”
The cups are available for purchase on WoodfordReserveMintJulep.com.
Secretariat’s Mint Julep Recipe
2 oz. Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
1 oz. chestnut liqueur
1 sprig of mint, for garnish
1 stalk of Virginia bluebells, for garnish
Directions: Mix, then pour over a julep cup filled with crushed ice. Garnish with one sprig of mint and one stalk of Virginia bluebells.
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