Woodford Reserve announced a partnership with the Jacques Pépin Foundation (JPF) to celebrate the legendary chef’s 90th birthday. 

The special evening takes place on Sunday, July 20th at the acclaimed Holly Hill Inn near Woodford Reserve Distillery in the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass. It’s part of the 90/90 Dinner Series benefitting the foundation, and the only one being held in Kentucky.

“It’s a privilege to celebrate the legendary Jacques Pépin with amazing food and Woodford Reserve cocktails,” Elizabeth McCall, Woodford Reserve Master Distiller, said in a news release. “This special evening will be an event to remember.”

Launched in Fall 2024, the JPF’s 90/90 campaign  features 90 chef-hosted events nationwide as part of the series to celebrate 90 years of Jacques. The goal is to raise a record amount of funds to further the foundation’s mission of improving lives through culinary education. Through job training in food service for people facing employment barriers nationwide, and improved health and food literacy for all, the gifts collected during this campaign will make a lasting change for the better.

“We are deeply grateful to Woodford Reserve, Chef Ouita Michel, and the entire Holly Hill Inn team for their generous support of the Jacques Pépin Foundation and our 90/90 campaign,” Claudine Pépin, President of the Jacques Pépin Foundation, said. “Their commitment to advancing culinary education and honoring my father’s legacy is truly kind. It’s a joy to have them as part of this milestone celebration leading up to my father’s 90th birthday.”

“Jacques Pepin’s amazing cookbooks have been a source of inspiration for me as a chef for the entirety of my career,” Michel, owner of Holly Hill, said. “His television shows, his art, his personal story of triumph have enriched the lives of millions of people for more than 50 years. It’s an honor to give back to his legacy and the Jacques Pepin Foundation, the best way we know how- preparing a delicious meal and celebrating together in our Holly Hill garden.”

The evening commences at 6 p.m. with a signature Woodford Reserve welcome cocktail in the garden, accompanied by hors d’oeuvres created by Chef Marc Puil of Lexington’s La Deauville Bistro. Dinner by the Holly Hill Inn culinary team, led by legendary chef and owner Michel, comprises three courses at table, followed by a selection of celebratory desserts prepared by Chef Martine Holzman of Martine’s Pastries.

The $140 cost per ticket includes a welcome cocktail, dinner, donation and service. They are on sale now via the Holly Hill Inn website. Each ticket includes a one-year Pepin Foundation membership to all attendees. 

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About Woodford Reserve

Brown-Forman Corporation has been building spirits brands for more than 150 years. The company’s portfolio of premium brands includes the Jack Daniel’s Family of Brands, Woodford Reserve, Herradura, el Jimador, New Mix, Old Forester, The Glendronach, Glenglassaugh, Benriach, Diplomático Rum, Chambord, Gin Mare, Fords Gin, Slane, and Coopers’ Craft. With a team of approximately 5,400 employees worldwide, the company distributes beverages in more than 170 countries. For more information, visit brown-forman.com.

About Jacques Pépin Foundation

Founded in 2016, the Jacques Pépin Foundation (JPF) was created to honor Jacques’ generosity and passion for sharing his culinary knowledge. The JPF’s work is focused on teaching and inspiring all people to cook. The JPF is a 501(c)3 charitable organization. To support the JPF or learn more visit https://jp.foundation.