Duncan Taylor Logo

Duncan Taylor

Region
  • Scotland
Awards
  • World Whiskies Awards, International Wine & Spirits Competition, China Wine & Spirits Awards
Website
  • https://www.duncantaylor.com/
Phone Number
  • +441466794055
Address
  • King St, Huntly AB54 8HP, United Kingdom

Elegant wine cellar with wooden shelves and orchid decoration.

History of Duncan Taylor

The Duncan Taylor Scotch Whisky Distillery has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1938. It was officially registered as Duncan Taylor & Co, a cask broker and trading company, on May 27, 1938, in Glasgow, Scotland. 

In the 1960s, the company was acquired by Abe Rosenberg, a New Yorker who had previously imported J&B Scotch to America after World War II. Rosenberg was passionate about premium single malts and single grains, which led him to amass over 4,500 casks into the Duncan Taylor portfolio, many of which are still part of the company’s collection.

The distillery saw a significant change in 2002 when Euan Shand, a whisky merchant, acquired the company, returning it to Scottish hands.

Under Shand’s leadership, Duncan Taylor & Co has grown into a global enterprise, present in over 60 countries, and has received numerous prestigious awards for its products.

One of the notable brands under Duncan Taylor is Black Bull, a premium blended Scotch with a history dating back to 1864.

Since 2009, under Euan Shand’s ownership, new expressions of Black Bull have been released annually, earning several awards, including the 2008 IWSC Trophy for Best Blended Scotch Whisky.

Today, Duncan Taylor Scotch Whisky is based in Huntly, Aberdeenshire, near Speyside. The company is renowned for owning one of the largest privately held collections of vintage and rare whiskies.

It continues to broker, store, mature, blend, and bottle premium casks from various distilleries around the world for the global Scotch whisky market.

 

 

Awards Won by Duncan Taylor

Duncan Taylor Scotch Whisky has garnered numerous prestigious awards across various categories, showcasing its excellence in the spirits industry. 

Some notable achievements include:

  • World Whiskies Awards: Duncan Taylor has won several awards, including the Best Blended Scotch for Black Bull 40 Year Old and various gold, silver, and bronze awards for other products in different categories.
  • International Wine & Spirits Competition: recognized their Black Bull 12 Year Old and other spirits with gold and silver medals.
  • Independent Bottlers Challenge: awarded gold to several of their Rare Auld Scotch Whisky and The Octave products.
  • International Spirits Challenge: Their Black Bull 21 Year Old and Smokin’ Scotch Whisky won silver medals.
  • San Francisco World Spirits Competition: Their Black Bull 12 Year Old Blended Scotch and The Big Smoke 46 Blended Malt Scotch received gold, among other recognitions.
  • LA International Spirits Competition: awarded their Indian Summer Gin a silver medal.
  • China Wine & Spirits Awards: Black Bull 12 Year Old and 21 Year Old achieved double gold.
  • World Gin Awards honoured their Indian Summer Contemporary Style Gin with a bronze medal.

What To Do Nearby Duncan Taylor

Huntly Castle: This historic site, once a luxurious residence for the Earls of Huntly, is a must-visit. It’s known for its long history of prestige and has provided shelter to significant historical figures like Robert the Bruce. The ruins of the castle make for a fascinating exploration.

Leith Hall: Just seven miles south of Huntly, Leith Hall is a stunning country house surrounded by scenic gardens. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, it offers beautiful walks, trails, and a variety of wildlife.

North East Falconry Centre: For bird enthusiasts, this is a great place to witness a variety of birds of prey in action.

The Glendronach Distillery: Also located in Huntly, this distillery has been creating fine Scottish malts for over 200 years, making it a significant part of the Speyside whisky trail.

Huntly Nordic and Outdoor Centre: This unique facility is Britain’s only purpose-built all-weather location for cross-country and roller skiing.

Huntly Golf Club: Situated between the rivers Deveron and Bogie, the golf club offers a picturesque and tranquil setting for golf enthusiasts.

Local Cuisine and Drinks: Huntly is known for its rich culinary offerings, including traditional Scottish fare like shortbread and ice cream. The area also boasts a range of restaurants serving fresh seafood, Aberdeen Angus beef, and local wild game.

Walking and Cycling Routes: The surrounding area of Huntly provides numerous walking and cycling routes for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Aberdeenshire.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Duncan Taylor?

  • Cafe India: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441466792667. Their address is 109 Gordon St, Huntly AB54 8ES, United Kingdom.
  • The Bank Cafe & Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441466543103. Their address is 2 The Square, Huntly AB54 8AE, United Kingdom.
  • The Market Cafe: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441466794795. Their address is The Ward, Huntly AB54 4QU, United Kingdom. 

What hotels are near Duncan Taylor?

  • Hillhead Hideaways: It has a rating of 5.0 stars on Google Maps.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +447955660973. Their address is Hillhead Hideaways Glen of, Newmill, Keith AB55 6XE, United Kingdom.
  • Commercial Hotel: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441464820209. Their address is 17 Commerce St, Insch AB52 6HX, United Kingdom.
  • The Station Hotel: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441464821111. Their address is Commercial Rd, Insch AB52 6JN, United Kingdom.