The Intoxicologist Is In

Popular Derby Cocktail continues tradition with release of commemorative bottle

Louisville, KY– For the past 22 years, the Early Times Mint Julep has proudly served as the “Official Drink of the Kentucky Derby®.”  In celebration of this, Early Times Kentucky Whisky continues its tradition with the release of the 2009 commemorative Kentucky Derby bottle.

In recognition of its “Official Drink of the Kentucky Derby” designation, Early Times commissioned renowned equine artist Celeste Susany to create an original oil painting of an actual scene at Churchill Downs® for its 2009 Derby bottle. 2009 marks Celeste’s 10th anniversary of painting the artwork for the Early Times Mint Julep commemorative bottle. Entitled “Dueling Towards Destiny”, this year’s painting depicts two powerhouse horses in stride racing towards the finish line with the Derby crowd and famed Twin Spires in the background.

“Celeste’s work captures the true essence and emotion of Derby day,” said Joe Murray, Brand Manager for Early Times Kentucky Whisky. “The Early Times Mint Julep bottle has truly become a collectible among art, horse racing and whisky fans and is a must-have for Derby parties as the perfect way to serve a delicious mint julep in less than ten seconds.”

During this year’s Derby week, more than 140,000 Early Times Mint Juleps are expected to be served at Churchill Downs. Over the past 22 years, more than 2.5 million Early Times Mint Juleps have been served between Kentucky Oaks® and Derby Days at Churchill Downs. This year’s Derby will take place May 2, 2009 in Louisville, Kentucky.

Launching in April 2009, the newly labeled one-liter pre-mix bottle will be available in limited quantities throughout the United States for a suggested retail price of $14.99.

To create the Early Times Mint Julep in traditional fashion…

Early Times Mint Julep Recipe

2 ounces Early Times

1 Tablespoon Simple Syrup

Mint Sprigs

Crushed Ice

Crush a few mint leaves in the bottom of an 8 ounce glass, then fill with crushed ice.  Add one tablespoon of simple syrup and one tablespoon of water.  Add 2 ounces Early Times.  Stir gently until glass frosts.  Garnish with a fresh mint sprig, sip and enjoy.

Simple Syrup with Mint

1 cup water

1 cup sugar

1 bunch fresh mint springs

Combine sugar and water.  Boil for 5 minutes without stirring.  Pour mix over a handful of mint leaves and gently crush the mint with a spoon.  Refrigerate overnight in a closed jar.  Remove mint leaves, but continue to refrigerate.  Stays fresh for several weeks. 

About the Artist:

Celeste Susany was born in eastern Ohio in 1952. She spent a large portion of her life around horses in Santa Anita, Hollywood Park, and Del Mar, California. She received her degree from the Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles. Susany received recognition as a top American artist in the book Racing in Art, by John Fairley, published in 1990. She produced artwork in 1989, 1990, and 1996 for the Kentucky Derby.

About Early Times Kentucky Whisky:

Early Times Kentucky Whisky, 40% ABV, is the “Official Drink of the Kentucky Derby” made at the Brown-Forman Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. Early Times Kentucky Whisky is one of the fine spirits produced and marketed by Brown-Forman Corporation, a diversified producer and marketer of fine quality consumer products, including Jack Daniel’s, Southern Comfort, Finlandia Vodka, Tequila Herradura, el Jimador Tequila, Canadian Mist, Old Forester, Fetzer Wines and Korbel California Champagnes.  Early Times reminds you to drink responsibly. For more information on Early Times Kentucky Whisky visit www.earlytimes.com.

Churchill Downs®, Kentucky Derby® and the Twin Spires design are registered trademarks of Churchill Downs Incorporated.

The best TIMES are enjoyed responsibly

Early Times Distillery Co., Kentucky Whisky, 40% Alc. by Volume, Louisville, KY

©2009 EARLY TIMES is a registered trademark