Woodford Reserve and Cherie DeVaux Launch Limited-Edition Bourbon for Thoroughbred Aftercare
Woodford Reserve Distillery has joined forces with celebrated Thoroughbred trainer Cherie DeVaux to introduce a special limited-edition bourbon release that combines Kentucky’s rich traditions of horse racing and whiskey craftsmanship while supporting an important charitable cause. The exclusive release, named “Cherie DeVaux Derby Gold,” commemorates DeVaux’s remarkable achievements on the racetrack and aims to raise funds for retired racehorses through the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.
The collaboration comes on the heels of an extraordinary racing season for DeVaux, who captured national attention after winning both the 2026 Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes with her standout Thoroughbred, Golden Tempo. Her victories marked a historic milestone in the sport and further cemented her reputation as one of the most accomplished trainers in modern horse racing.
Recognizing the strong connection between Kentucky’s horse racing heritage and bourbon culture, Woodford Reserve partnered with DeVaux to create a collectible bourbon release that celebrates excellence in both industries while giving back to the equine community.
A Carefully Crafted Limited Edition
Just days after her landmark Kentucky Derby victory, DeVaux visited Woodford Reserve Distillery to personally participate in the barrel selection process. During the visit, she sampled a range of Woodford Reserve Double Oaked bourbons before choosing three exceptional single barrels for the special release.
The resulting collection, known as Cherie DeVaux Derby Gold, showcases the premium quality and craftsmanship that have made Woodford Reserve Double Oaked one of the distillery’s most sought-after expressions. The Double Oaked process involves aging bourbon in a second, heavily toasted and lightly charred oak barrel, creating deeper flavors and enhanced complexity.
The selected barrels deliver the rich caramel, vanilla, dark fruit, and toasted oak characteristics that bourbon enthusiasts have come to expect from the award-winning expression. By hand-selecting the barrels herself, DeVaux has added a personal touch to the release, making it particularly appealing to collectors, racing fans, and whiskey connoisseurs alike.
Because the bourbon comes from only three carefully chosen single barrels, availability will be extremely limited, increasing its desirability among enthusiasts seeking unique and commemorative releases.
Supporting Retired Racehorses
Beyond its collectible appeal, the partnership serves a meaningful philanthropic purpose. Proceeds from every bottle sold will benefit the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring the welfare of Thoroughbred racehorses after their competitive careers come to an end.
The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance accredits, inspects, and financially supports organizations that provide retraining, rehabilitation, retirement, and rehoming services for retired Thoroughbreds. Through these efforts, former racehorses are given opportunities for second careers in disciplines such as show jumping, dressage, eventing, therapeutic riding programs, and recreational riding.
The organization plays a critical role in promoting responsible ownership and long-term care within the Thoroughbred racing industry. Funds generated through the Cherie DeVaux Derby Gold release will help expand those efforts and provide additional resources for accredited aftercare facilities throughout the country.
For DeVaux, whose career has been built around developing and caring for elite racehorses, supporting aftercare initiatives is a natural extension of her commitment to the sport.
Celebrating Kentucky Traditions
The partnership reflects the deep cultural connection between Kentucky’s two most iconic industries: horse racing and bourbon production. Both traditions have shaped the state’s identity for generations and continue to attract visitors from around the world.
Woodford Reserve has long maintained a strong presence within the racing community, serving as the Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby and frequently collaborating on projects that honor the sport’s heritage. By partnering with a trainer who recently achieved racing’s highest honors, the distillery is further strengthening that relationship.
The release also highlights the growing trend of limited-edition bourbons tied to notable sporting achievements and charitable causes. Collectors increasingly seek bottles that offer not only exceptional whiskey but also a compelling story and meaningful impact.
Official Bottle Release Event
Fans eager to secure a bottle of Cherie DeVaux Derby Gold will have the opportunity to attend a special release event hosted at Woodford Reserve Distillery.
The event is scheduled for Friday, June 26, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. EDT at the distillery located at 7785 McCracken Pike in Versailles, Kentucky.
Attendees will have the chance to purchase bottles from the limited release and meet Cherie DeVaux in person during an exclusive signing session. The event is expected to attract bourbon collectors, horse racing enthusiasts, and supporters of Thoroughbred aftercare from across the region.
Each bottle will retail for $99.99, offering buyers an opportunity to own a unique piece of racing and bourbon history while contributing to a worthwhile charitable initiative.
For those unable to attend the event in person, a very limited quantity of bottles will also be made available online through Woodford Reserve’s website in states where direct shipping is permitted by law.
A Winning Combination
Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall emphasized the natural connection between the collaboration partners and the charitable mission behind the release.
“Cherie and I share a love of The Kentucky Derby, horses and bourbon,” McCall said. “So, this special bottle release benefitting retired thoroughbreds is a trifecta.”
Her comments underscore the spirit of the project, which brings together three defining elements of Kentucky culture: world-class horse racing, premium bourbon craftsmanship, and a commitment to caring for the animals that make the sport possible.
As excitement continues to build around Cherie DeVaux’s historic racing accomplishments, the launch of Cherie DeVaux Derby Gold offers fans another way to celebrate her success. More importantly, it creates a lasting legacy by supporting retired Thoroughbreds and ensuring they receive the care and opportunities they deserve long after leaving the racetrack.
With limited availability, a charitable mission, and direct involvement from one of racing’s most accomplished trainers, Cherie DeVaux Derby Gold is poised to become one of the most sought-after bourbon releases of the year.
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