Artist-jockey designs Woodford derby bottle

Woodford Reserve comes up with a new design each year for its commemorative Kentucky Derby bottle. This year, the small-batch bourbon has utilized the artwork of retired jockey Tom Chapman.

“Much as we try, it’s impossible to express in words the intensity of racing from a jockey’s perspective,” Chapman said.

“My goal is to capture it with a paint brush and canvas, often using unique angles and vibrant colors to set the tone. But no painting can truly capture the vibrancy and intensity of the Kentucky Derby.”

The image depicts the mood of the Derby as two jockeys in brightly-colored silks concentrate on the race, with the historic Twin Spires of Louisville’s Churchill Downs racetrack in the background. Chapman’s signature adorns the neck band of the bottle, and an attached tag bears information about the artist and product.

The limited edition liter-size bottle of 90.4-proof bourbon will be available later this month nationwide.

Chapman won more than 2,500 races and rode in the Kentucky Derby. He paints in oils, varying from realism to impressionism, and his work is represented in galleries and racetracks across the country.

Woodford Reserve Bourbon is the “Official Bourbon of Kentucky Derby 135” and has served as the official bourbon for the past 11 years.

It also sponsors a Grade I race, the Woodford Reserve Turf Classic, which is run on Derby Day, May 2, and has become one of thoroughbred racing’s premier events.

Woodford Reserve is produced in Versailles, KY, by Brown-Forman Corp.


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