Woodford Reserve Has Unveiled Their Annual $1000 Mint Julep

Woodford Reserve $1000 Mint Julep. Courtesy Photo.

With the Kentucky Derby just a month away, Woodford Reserve has unveiled their annual $1000 Mint Julep.

This year’s cups commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Derby’s first female jockey, Diane Crump. Crump rode a horse named Fathom in the 1970 Kentucky Derby, finishing 15th but cementing her place in Derby history. The cups showcase etchings of her silks from the race as well as the iconic twin spires of Churchill Downs. They will arrive on your doorstep nestled in a walnut box lined with a replica of her turquoise and white silks.

Just 146 cups are available for sale, commemorating the 146th running of the Derby. Cups 1-25 are gold plated and sell for $2500, while cups 26-146 are silver plated and sell for $1000. Proceeds from the sale will go to benefit the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund.

“The $1,000 Mint Julep program has become a cherished Derby tradition — and this year we are honored to mark an important moment in Derby history while also raising money for charity,” Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Chris Morris said in a press release.

Morris will conduct a virtual Derby day experience for those who purchase a cup. In the past, cups could only be picked up at the track, but this year they will be shipped due to pandemic precautions. Cups are for sale now – link here to shop yours while they last.

Diane Crump Blackberry Mint Julep 

2 oz. Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon

1 barspoon Blackberry Preserves

1 barspoon Simple Syrup

Mint Bitters

Fresh Blackberries and Mint Sprigs, for garnish

Crushed Ice

“At the bottom of the julep cup, mix 1 bar spoon of blackberry preserves and 1 bar spoon of simple syrup. Add 2 – 4 dashes of mint bitters. Fill two-thirds of cup with crushed ice. Add sipping straw and Woodford Reserve Bourbon. Top off cup with more crushed ice (packed in). Top with fresh blackberries (the official fruit of Kentucky) and a sprig of mint to garnish. Put the mint near the straw, so the smell enhances each sip. Enjoy!”

Caroline Paulus
Caroline Paulus is the Senior Editor for The Bourbon Review. She lives and writes in Lexington, Kentucky. Follow her on Instagram @misswhiskeyhistorian to keep up with her latest in bourbon news - and a few old finds, too.