Since its foundation in 1692 by Job Bearsley, the company has remained independent. Now well into its fourth century, it has thrived and prospered, establishing itself as one of the world’s most respected historic wine houses. This has been achieved through the perseverance, pioneering spirit and continuity of purpose of successive generations of family involvement.
The year of 1994 saw the continuity of family management assured for a further generation with the arrival in Portugal of Adrian Bridge and his wife Natasha, Alistair and Gillyane Robertson’s eldest daughter. Adrian brought with him extensive international business experience as well as leadership skills which would be vital in preparing the firm for the challenges of the 21st century. After winning the Sword of Honour at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, he had spent six years as an officer in the Queen’s Dragoon Guards followed by a further six in London running the US equity sales team for NatWest Investment Bank. On his arrival in Portugal he assumed responsibility for Port sales in Britain and the USA, overseeing strong growth in both of these key markets.
Taylor’s is one of the most highly respected producers of aged tawny Port wines. 20 Year Old Tawny Port is fully matured in seasoned oak casks each holding about 630 litres of wine. Here, over many years of ageing, the Port wine gradually takes on its characteristic amber ‘tawny’ colour, slowly developing the complex mellow flavours and the smooth luscious palate which are the hallmarks of this style of port.
Taylor’s blends its magnificent 20 year old tawny Ports from its extensive reserves of old cask aged Ports matured in the firm’s cool and tranquil cellars (known as ‘lodges’) in Oporto on Portugal’s Atlantic coast.
In the 20 Year Old tawny, the fruit has mellowed further than in the 10 Year Old, and the spicy, nutty aromas of ageing are more powerful and intense.