Mint julep of them in specially made Kentucky Derby collectible glasses. In a contract arrangement between the Brown-Forman Corporation and Churchill Downs that has lasted more than 18 years, the Early Times Mint Julep Cocktail has been the designated "official mint julep of the Kentucky Derby", although the Early Times sold within the United States is a Kentucky whiskey, not a bourbon, due to its being aged in used, rather than new, oak barrels. However beginning in 2015, Old Forester, which is also produced by the Brown-Forman Corporation, is now "the official drink of the Kentucky Derby," when sold as Old Forester
Key to the Mint Award for American Champion Three-Year-Old Male Horse. He continued to race at age four, notably winning the 1973 Excelsior Handicap and equalling the track record for 9.5 furlongs in winning the Suburban Handicap. Retired to stud duty, Key to the Mint sired Plugged Nickle, the 1980 American Champion Sprint Horse; Java Gold, a multiple Grade 1 winner and sire of Kona Gold; and Jewel Princess, the 1996 American Champion Older Female Horse. He is also the damsire of European Champion Swain and Canadian Champion 3-Year-Old Male Horse Key to the Moon. Key to the Mint Key to the Mint (1969–1996)