Maker’s Mark commemorative label with Joe B. Hall, ’78 Cats looks to be next in lineup

It looks like Maker’s Mark is reaching into the basketball vault for its next commemorative bottle: This year’s label will feature coach Joe B. Hall cutting the net for the 1978 University of Kentucky championship team.

That’s what is shown on a label approved by federal alcohol officials this week, although officials with UK and Maker’s Mark won’t confirm it.

The premium Kentucky bourbon maker typically releases a special bottle that is signed at the Keeneland spring race meet. A spokesman for Maker’s Mark said and announcement would be made later. The commemorative is usually announced in mid-March, with a bottle release date set in early April. The limited releases sell out quickly.

According to the label, this will be the 20th charitable bottle done in partnership with Keeneland.

Like last year’s white and blue bottle that honored legendary coach Adolph Rupp, proceeds from this one will benefit the UK Center for Academic and Tutorial Services. This is the second year of a five-year campaign to raise $4 million for the support program for student athletes.

Another special Maker’s Mark label featuring Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup Classic winner American Pharoah also was approved last week. No information was immediately available on when that label will be released or where. That label is bright yellow with teal lettering, with a stylized horse’s head. According to the label, proceeds will benefit charities dedicated to honoring the sport of horse racing.

This story was originally published February 17, 2016 at 5:14 PM with the headline "Maker’s Mark commemorative label with Joe B. Hall, ’78 Cats looks to be next in lineup."