Many individuals enjoy sipping on a Mint Julep while witnessing the Kentucky Derby, famously referred to as ‘The Quickest Two Minutes in Sports.’ This year, the Preferred Wine of the 150th Kentucky Derby is Kendall-Jackson. Renowned for crafting America’s leading Chardonnay, the esteemed vineyard has introduced two distinct limited-edition wines to commemorate the occasion. They are perfect choices for hosting your very own Derby viewing gathering.
Both the Kentucky Derby x Kendall-Jackson 2022 ‘150th Anniversary’ Mendocino County Chardonnay and the Sonoma Valley Kentucky Derby x Kendall-Jackson 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon wines showcase a unique label paying tribute to the 150th celebration of the ‘Run for The Roses’, featuring the retired American Thoroughbred racehorse Rachel Alexandra from Stonestreet Stables.
The Derby is often recognized as “The Run for the Roses”, where the triumphant horse is adorned with a blanket of exquisite roses. Stonestreet Stables represents the Thoroughbred horse breeding and racing estate of the Jackson family situated in the renowned Bluegrass Hills of Lexington, Kentucky. Rachel Alexandra, the cherished racehorse of Jess Jackson, achieved victory in numerous races, including those at Churchill Downs, Belmont Park, and Saratoga Racecourse.
This Chardonnay blend is curated using grapes from various AVAs within Mendocino County. Each glass presents delightful vanilla nuances alongside vibrant hints of tropical fruits and tangerine. Recommended food pairings with this wine encompass: Deviled Eggs, Fried Chicken, Baked Bourbon Chicken, and Pimento Cheese Spread with Crudites. Best served at 50° F in a Burgundy glass.
Winemaking details: Meticulously crafted in small vineyard lots and oak barrels to deliver Kendall-Jackson’s renowned velvety consistency and creaminess.
The exclusive Kendall Jackson Cabernet Sauvignon is a fusion of 87% Cabernet grapes, 7% Petit Verdot, and 3% Cabernet Franc for gentle tannins and enriched texture. A touch of 2% Merlot is added by the winemaker to heighten the wine’s smoothness and fullness.
This red wine is fruit-centric, displaying bright scents of ripe cherries, red currants, cassis, and a touch of pomegranate. Embracing the palate are hints of baking spices and dark chocolate. Additional flavors such as blueberries and caramel linger on the finish.
Winemaking details: Aged for 23 months in a combination of 74% French Oak and 26% American Oak. Culinary suggestions include Pulled Pork Sliders and Oysters Rockefeller with Pimento cheese. Optimal serving temperature is 65° F in a Burgundy glass.
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