Grey Goose Vodka Celebrates The 140th Kentucky Derby

01 May 2014 --- GREY GOOSE Vodka will toast the best of thoroughbred horse racing, for the tenth consecutive year at the 140th Kentucky Derby.

This year, the most exciting two minutes in sports coincides with the launch of the brand's newest expression, GREY GOOSE Le Melon Flavored Vodka, crafted with Cavaillon melons from Provence, France. One of the world's sweetest, most flavorful fruits, the legendary Cavaillon melon has a rich and intriguing history, said to have been coveted by French kings and nobility.

In a special salute to Todd Pletcher, the record-holding six-time Eclipse Award winner as Outstanding Trainer of the Year, GREY GOOSE master mixologists have created the All the King's Horses cocktail. Crafted with GREY GOOSE Le Melon, in a unique pairing with fresh grapefruit and spicy jalapeno, All the King's Horses will be served to celebrities and notable guests at the GREY GOOSE lounge on the Kentucky Derby red carpet, and to guests at the 26th Barnstable Brown Kentucky Derby Eve Gala, the annual star-studded bash that is a highlight of Derby weekend.

"We are delighted to celebrate Todd Pletcher at the 140th running of the Kentucky Derby," said Michelle Beauchamp, GREY GOOSE Vodka Brand Director.  "As a trainer of the largest and arguably the best racing string in the nation, and the youngest horse trainer in history to attain unprecedented purse earnings, Todd exemplifies the passionate pursuit of the extraordinary that is at the heart of the GREY GOOSE Fly Beyond spirit."

Pletcher's horses have found the winner's circle nearly 2,900 times in 16 years and he has earned more than $200 million in trackside earnings.  This year, "The King" brings four contenders to the hallowed gates: Arkansas Derby winner Danza, Risen Star winner Intense Holiday, Spiral Stakes winner We Miss Artie, and Vinceremos.

"It's an honor and I'm humbled to be celebrated by GREY GOOSE. I've always been a fan of the brand and I felt a kinship with GREY GOOSE creator Francois Thibault when I learned how he defied convention to set the standard in his field," said Todd Pletcher.

In keeping with the Kentucky Derby tradition started in 2006, GREY GOOSE will also feature the GREY GOOSE Oaks Lily cocktail, the official cocktail of the Kentucky Oaks races, which take place on Friday at Churchill Downs. This specialty cocktail, served in a commemorative glass, will be available on the red carpet and for purchase at racetrack concessions and VIP areas throughout the races, with a portion of the proceeds from the sales of the GREY GOOSE Oaks Lily to benefit Horses and Hope.