Graeter’s Ice Cream partners with Churchill Downs for Kentucky Derby LTO flavor

Published: 2026-04-15 08:31:39 ET CHDN

Published on 04/15/2026 at 08:31 am EDT

Graeter's Ice Cream has released a limited-edition flavor, Backstretch Bourbon Cherry, as an officially licensed ice cream of the Kentucky Derby, according to a press release.

The flavor, a collaboration between the Cincinnati-based ice cream maker and Churchill Downs, features bourbon-infused ice cream mixed with black cherries and pralines.

"We've long believed a collaboration between Graeter's and Churchill Downs was a natural fit," Richard Graeter, fourth-generation president and CEO of Graeter's Ice Cream, said in the press release. "When the Churchill Downs team visited Cincinnati late last year, they experienced our factory tour and tasted ice cream straight from our French Pots — and we introduced them to what is now Backstretch Bourbon Cherry. The flavor and name were developed by Graeter's with their input, and Churchill Downs approved it on the very first bite. From that moment, we knew we had a winning flavor."

The flavor is available now at Graeter's scoop shops and for nationwide shipping online. Starting April 15, pints will be sold at select grocery retailers, including Kroger locations in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indianapolis, as well as Dorothy Lane Markets, Jungle Jim's and Central Market in Texas.

The company is also offering three "Off to the Races" ice cream packs online, which include various flavor combinations and, in one package, a Kern's Derby Pie.

During the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby on May 1-2, a Graeter's Ice Cream truck will be stationed at the Clubhouse Gate entrance of Churchill Downs to provide samples to ticketed guests. The flavor will also be served in select suites and dining areas at the track.

Additionally, Graeter's is holding a giveaway for free ice cream for a year. Entries are being accepted at the company's website through May 2.

Graeter's has 50-plus retail stores and ships more than 300,000 pints annually. The brand can also be found in more than 3,000 grocery stores across the United States. Graeter's launched a brand refresh late last year.