Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby 146 (75cl, 45.2%)

This is a Kentucky straight bourbon from the Woodford Reserve Distillery, issued as the 2020 commemorative bottle for the 146th Kentucky Derby. It is bottled at 45.2% ABV (90.4 proof) and made from 72% corn, 18% rye and 10% malted barley, distilled in triple copper pot stills. The label carries a watercolour by Louisville artist Richard Sullivan, showing thoroughbreds heading for the finish with the Twin Spires of Churchill Downs behind them. That year the race was run on 5 September, moved from May, without spectators. The nose has dried fruit, vanilla, caramel and gentle spice. The palate brings caramel, baking spice, chocolate and oak, and the finish is medium to long with warm spice and caramel.