Maker’s Mark and Keeneland Race Course in Lexington are teaming up this fall to offer a series of commemorative bottles honoring iconic Thorobred racehorses. The first year of the decade-long “Greats of the Gate” bottle series will honor Man o’ War, winner of 20 of his 21 races more than 100 years ago. The initial bottle in the series will be available in October to coincide with the Fall Keeneland racing meet.
Proceeds from the commemorative bottles, according to a news release, “will benefit nonprofits that support Kentucky culture, including the horseracing industry, hospitality and the arts.” The first three years of the 10-year series will support Kentucky Harvest, Arts Center of the Bluegrass, and Blue Grass Farms Charities.
Maker’s Mark and Keeneland Race Course are committing to raise at least $4 million for Kentucky non-profits over the next 10 years.
An illustration by Kentucky artist Tyler Robertson will be featured on the bottle. Red and yellow (Man o’ War’s racing colors) will figure prominently on the bottle, including bright yellow wax and a black silk ribbon
“Keeneland and Maker’s Mark have a rich history of working hand-in-hand to support organizations making an impact in Kentucky. We’re honored to partner each year in such a meaningful way, dating back to when Keeneland was our first customer serving Maker’s Mark in the 1950s and setting the stage for decades of collaboration to follow.”
