Maker’s Mark bourbon is the official bourbon of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, which will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky., Sept. 25 to Oct. 10.

Maker’s Mark will sponsor the equestrian games’ main hospitality tent.

The equestrian games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Federation Equestre International.

The Kentucky games mark the first time the event has been held outside Europe and the first time competition in all eight disciplines have been held at the same location, according to a news release.

The main hospitality tent, mostly for VIPs and those who buy hospitality packages, will be sponsored by Maker’s Mark and feature a “world of bourbon,” with a variety of brands during the Games.

“Our Maker’s Mark traditions and heritage are rooted in Kentucky, which is why we’re so thrilled to be a partner of the … Games,”

said Bill Samuels Jr., president and chief executive officer of Maker’s Mark.

“Bourbon and horses are a natural pair — especially in Kentucky where their histories run deep. We’re looking forward to making our ‘mark’ on the games.”

The Maker’s Mark distillery in Loretto, near Bardstown, is billed as the oldest operating distillery. The small batch bourbon is known for its distinctive bottles, which are sealed with a red wax top.

“Bourbon is a part of the fabric of Kentucky, and Maker’s Mark is a world-class spirit,”

said Kentucky first lady Jane Beshear.