Maker’s Mark releasing American Pharoah bottle

To honor the first Triple Crown winner since 1978 and the first time any horse has ever won both the Triple Crown and the Breeders’ Cup Classic, Maker’s Mark is releasing an American Pharoah commemorative bottle on May 1, a week before the 2016 Kentucky Derby. The limited edition, available in Kentucky and at select markets nationwide, will be priced around $75.

In 2015, American Pharoah won the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness and the Belmont, a feat no horse had accomplished since Affirmed. Then he went on to claim the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Keeneland, establishing himself as one of the greatest racehorses in history.

The bright blue bottle echoes the silks of the Zayat Stables, with an outline of American Pharoah in bright yellow. For this version, Maker’s Mark’s signature red wax is teal blue with a yellow and blue-dotted ribbon over the top.

“Maker’s Mark has always had a strong connection with horse racing,” said Rob Samuels, Maker’s Mark COO. “Without the support of the Thoroughbred industry in the early days of our brand, Maker’s Mark simply wouldn’t exist. We’re honored to help grow the sport we love while also commemorating one of the most remarkable achievements in sports history.”

In honor of the occasion, Ahmed Zayat, who owned American Pharoah, is making a donation to the Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs in Louisville.

“American Pharoah proved to an entire generation of racing fans that the impossible can be achieved,” said Zayat. “It was a joy for us to race him each and every time he took the track, and we thank Maker’s Mark for their fitting tribute to this once-in-a-lifetime racehorse.”

This story was originally published April 22, 2016 at 2:56 PM with the headline "Maker’s Mark releasing American Pharoah bottle."