152 Hand-Crafted Cups Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary, Benefitting Closely Crafted

Woodford Reserve is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States through one of its most cherished Kentucky Derby traditions, the $5,000 Mint Julep Charity Cup program.

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This year’s luxury julep cup honors the nation’s founding and benefits a charity devoted to American craftsmanship. A total of 152 julep cups are available, commemorating the 152nd Run for the Roses.

Every cup is hand-crafted by Graham Newton of From The Vault and features a sculpted thoroughbred horse surrounded by thirteen stars paying tribute to the original thirteen colonies.

“This year’s julep charity program marries two historic events – the birth of the United States and the most iconic American race, run every year at Churchill Downs since 1875,” Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall said.

The collection includes 76 polished pewter cups ($2,000) and 76 gold-plated cups ($5,000).

Both editions feature a sterling silver horse and stars application adorned with 13 lab-created white sapphires, offered in polished pewter and gold-plated sterling silver.

Cups are available for online purchase beginning April 2 at and must be picked up at the $5,000 Mint Julep Experience at Churchill Downs on Oaks or Derby days, located in the Woodford Reserve Paddock near the main entrance.

Net proceeds from the sale of this year’s Mint Julep Cup program benefit Closely Crafted, a nonprofit founded by New York milliner Gigi Burris O’Hara dedicated to preserving and advancing artisan craftsmanship in the American fashion industry.

The organization works to cultivate the wellbeing of artisans by supporting education, apprenticeship pathways, and industry collaboration that strengthen domestic production and local craft communities across the United States. Burris O’Hara previously collaborated with Woodford Reserve on a limited-edition Derby hat collection for the 151st Kentucky Derby.

“As an artisan, I founded Closely Crafted to build community and ensure that skills like millinery and other specialty trades are passed on to a new generation of artisans,” O’Hara said. “Woodford Reserve shares a deep respect for handcrafted work, integrity, and the people behind it. We are honored that Closely Crafted will benefit from this year’s Mint Julep Cup program as we celebrate the enduring legacy of American craftsmanship.”

The recipe

A classically simple julep honoring the nation's 250th anniversary.

Drop 5-7 mint leaves in the bottom of a julep cup. Muddle to release the aromas

Add 2 ounces of Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon

Add one bar spoon of sweetener – a simple syrup made with sugar maple syrup slightly spiced with Thomas Jefferson’s favorite spices, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Top the julep cup with ice.

Add sipping straw and two sprigs of fresh mint and the garnish – a white and blue Fleur-de-lis and the official flower of both the Kentucky Derby and the USA – the red rose. A red, white, and blue flourish to celebrate USA 250.

About Woodford Reserve

Woodford Reserve, “Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby,” is crafted at the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery, tucked in the heart of thoroughbred country in Versailles, Kentucky. A National Historic Landmark, the Woodford Reserve Distillery represents craftsmanship with a balance of historic heritage and modern practices. Woodford Reserve is a product of the Brown-Forman Corporation, a premier producer and marketer of fine quality beverage alcohol brands including Jack Daniel’s, Tequila Herradura, Old Forester, and Chambord. Please enjoy your bourbon responsibly. To learn more about Woodford Reserve, visit us at www.woodfordreserve.com or check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/woodfordreserve.

About Closely Crafted

Closely Crafted is a New York–based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving and revitalizing artisan craftsmanship and domestic production in the American fashion industry. Guided by a board of industry leaders and fashion veterans, the organization supports skilled makers through education, collaboration, and apprenticeship pathways that foster the next generation of creators. Closely Crafted works to strengthen local manufacturing networks and help ensure the future of American craft. To learn more: https://www.closelycrafted.org/

Please Drink Responsibly

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 45.2% Alc. by Vol. The Woodford Reserve Distillery, Versailles, KY. Woodford Reserve is a registered trademark. ©2026 Brown-Forman Distillery, Inc. All rights reserved.

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