Maker’s Mark and Keeneland Unveil New 10-Year Kentucky Bourbon Bottle Series

In a remarkable turn of events in the world of bourbon, Maker’s Mark, one of Kentucky’s top bourbon distilleries, is collaborating with Keeneland, the world-renowned racecourse, to launch a new 10-year bourbon bottle series. The series is appropriately named “Greats of the Gate,” and honors the all-time great racehorses.

First Release Celebrating the Legendary ‘Man o’ War’

In a fitting tribute to the icons of the racetrack, this distinguished collection will kick off with none other than the famed Man o’ War, considered among the most legendary Thoroughbreds of all time. However, fans and collectors will need to exercise patience, as the first bottle in the series will not be available until October, moving away from previous special release schedules that were typically around April.

In previous years, the special releases often coincided with the annual running of the Maker’s Mark Mile. Enthusiasts would eagerly line up in liquor stores for their special edition bottle, then queue once more at the Keeneland Race Course for signings by sporting luminaries ranging from jockeys to celebrated University of Kentucky coaches and players.

Supporting Bluegrass-area Non-Profits

This year represents a shift from traditions, as there will not be a spring bottle signing. The bottles will now be released in the fall at Kentucky retailers according to official sources, and will benefit an array of non-profits in the Bluegrass region. The first three years of the series will support Kentucky Harvest , the Arts Center of the Bluegrass in Danville, and Blue Grass Farms Charities.

Charitable efforts from the sale of the Man o’ War bottle will be directed towards the construction of a new food pantry at The Thoroughbred Center on Paris Pike, Keeneland’s year-round training facility. This initiative aims to provide better support for horse industry workers.

Tribute to a Racing Icon

The special Man o’ War bottle will feature a wrap-around illustration by gifted Kentucky artist Tyler Robertson. The vivid depiction celebrates Man o’ War’s illustrious racing career spanning 1919 to 1920, during which he won 20 of 21 races, including the iconic venues of Preakness and Belmont. This exemplary horse also set records at seven different tracks over various distances.

Acknowledging the horse’s legacy, the bottle will be dipped in bright yellow wax and topped with an elegant black silk ribbon, reflecting the racing colors of Man o’ War. As it stands, it remains to be seen whether there will be a signing event organized for the fall meet.

Keeneland and Maker’s Mark: Committed to Community and Heritage

The partnership between Keeneland and Maker’s Mark is well-established, with both entities sharing a commitment to service, philanthropy, and a deep appreciation of heritage. This latest initiative, represented by the 10-year commemorative bottle series, captures these shared values perfectly, enriching the experiences of fans while channeling benefits toward the deserving organizations within the community.