Woodford Reserve Unveils 2026 Kentucky Derby Bottle Featuring Art by Anna Murphy

Woodford Derby Bottle 2026
Home » Bourbon Blog » Bourbon and Whiskey News » Woodford Reserve Unveils 2026 Kentucky Derby Bottle Featuring Art by Anna Murphy

VERSAILLES, Ky. (March 4, 2026) – Woodford Reserve, the Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby®, has officially released its highly anticipated 2026 commemorative bottle. This year marks over 25 years of the annual collector’s series, celebrating the 152nd running of “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®.”

The 2026 bottle features the vibrant work of Chicago-based artist Anna Murphy. Her piece, titled “Dress to Impress, 152,” moves away from traditional equine portraits to focus on the spectacular fashion and floral symbols that define Derby Day.


The Artwork: “Dress to Impress, 152”

Anna Murphy is renowned for her “blue and white” porcelain-inspired style, which she seamlessly translates from fine art oil paintings to large-scale public murals.

The 2026 label is a radiant tribute to Derby style, featuring:

  • Iconic Red Roses: The signature flower of the Kentucky Derby.
  • Symbolic Speedwell: A floral nod to the historical tradition of gifting speedwell for protection during travel.
  • Derby Fashion: A celebration of the bold colors and timeless millinery found at Churchill Downs.

Artist Anna Murphy shares:

Dress to Impress, 152 is a radiant tribute to Derby fashion, where bold style, timeless tradition, and the spirit of celebration come to life. At the heart of my work is a simple mission: to create beauty that leaves people feeling uplifted and carrying a little more wonder into the world.”


A Global Collector’s Staple

Since 1999, the Woodford Reserve Derby bottle has been a must-have for bourbon enthusiasts and horse racing fans alike. This year’s release continues that legacy, bridging the gap between Kentucky’s heritage and modern artistic expression.

Murphy, who moved to Kentucky from England at age 12 and is a graduate of the University of Louisville, brings a unique “local-turned-global” perspective to the bottle’s design.

Product Details & Availability

  • Format: One-Liter Bottle
  • Proof: 90.4 (45.2% ABV)
  • MSRP: $50.00
  • Availability: Rolling out globally in March 2026; also available at the Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, KY.

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