Woodford reserve derby 2023

The essence of woodford reserve derby 2023

The Woodford Reserve Derby bottle is an annual tradition, eagerly anticipated by bourbon enthusiasts and horse racing fans alike. Each year, a different artist is commissioned to create the artwork that graces the bottle, making each edition a unique collectible. The 2023 edition continued this tradition, capturing the spirit of the Kentucky Derby in its design.

The liquid inside, of course, remains the same high-quality Woodford Reserve bourbon that we've come to expect. It's a carefully crafted blend of more than 200 flavor notes, ranging from bold grain and wood, to sweet aromatics, spice, and fruit & floral notes.

The 2023 artist and design

In 2023, the honor of designing the Woodford Reserve Derby bottle fell to Kentucky native, W. Robert "Bob" Smith. Smith's artwork typically features vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, often portraying the energy and excitement of horse racing. The 2023 bottle design likely reflected his signature style, capturing the thundering hooves and the jubilant atmosphere of Churchill Downs on Derby day.

The design is a crucial part of the bottle's appeal, as it makes each year distinctly different. Collectors eagerly await the reveal of the artwork to see how the artist has interpreted the iconic event.

Tasting notes: what to expect from woodford reserve bourbon

While the bottle is beautiful, the real star is the bourbon inside. Woodford Reserve is known for its complex and balanced flavor profile. Here's a breakdown of what you might experience:

• Aroma: Rich dried fruit, hints of mint, oranges covered with cocoa, faint vanilla and tobacco spice.
• Taste: Rich, chewy, rounded and smooth, with complex citrus, cinnamon and cocoa. Toffee, caramel, chocolate, and spice notes abound.
• Finish: Silky smooth, almost creamy, with a long, warm satisfying tail.

These tasting notes make Woodford Reserve an excellent choice for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a Mint Julep - the quintessential Derby drink.

Collecting woodford reserve derby bottles: a growing hobby

Collecting Woodford Reserve Derby bottles has become a popular hobby for many. The limited-edition nature of the bottles, combined with the beautiful artwork and the quality of the bourbon, makes them highly sought after. Some older bottles can fetch significant prices on the secondary market, particularly those from the early years of the series or those signed by the artist.

For example, a sealed 1999 bottle, the first in the series, can be worth hundreds, sometimes thousands, of dollars depending on condition and demand. Later editions generally hold less value but still appreciate over time, especially if kept in pristine condition with the original packaging.

Where to find woodford reserve derby 2023

Woodford Reserve Derby bottles are typically released in the months leading up to the Kentucky Derby. They can be found at liquor stores, supermarkets, and online retailers that carry Woodford Reserve products. Given their limited-edition nature, they tend to sell out quickly, so it's advisable to purchase one as soon as you see it available. Look for them anywhere that stocks premium bourbon in late spring/early summer.

Be aware of price gouging on the secondary market. While some markup is expected, ensure you're paying a fair price relative to the initial retail value.