Black Bull 21 Year Old Scotch Whisky
Black Bull 21 Year Old Scotch Whisky is a 100-proof (50% ABV), 750mL blended Scotch matured 21 years in sherry and bourbon casks. Bottled to the original 1864 high-strength, malt-rich formula by Duncan Taylor, it is unusually malt-heavy for a blend — 55% malt to grain — non-chill-filtered and full of citrus, red apple, and warm spice. Order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV/Proof: 50% ABV (100 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Age: 21 years; sherry and bourbon casks
- Production: Blended Scotch, 55% malt / 45% grain (unusually high malt); high proportion of Highland malts with Speyside and Islay; non-chill-filtered; Duncan Taylor, Huntly, Scotland
- Heritage: Black Bull formula dates to 1864; revived by Duncan Taylor in 2001
The 1864 Formula at Full Strength
Black Bull was first released in 1864 by Dundee blender George Willsher, and Duncan Taylor revived the brand in 2001 with a deliberate choice: bottle it the way the Victorians did — higher strength, malt-forward, no filtration. The 21 Year Old is the age-stated flagship of that philosophy, sold in 60+ countries. Browse all of Black Bull or our Scotch whisky shelves.
Tasting Notes
Bright gold in the glass. The nose shows citrus, red apples, and tangerines with a touch of caramel. The palate is very lively and fresh — zesty notes of nutmeg and cloves giving way to vanilla sweetness and barley sugars. The finish is warming, with gentle pepper, nutty notes, and toasted marshmallows.
How to Enjoy
At 100 proof and non-chill-filtered, it rewards slow nosing — try it neat first, then add water to taste to open the fruit. A robust dram that stands up to a splash of soda too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What proof is Black Bull 21?
100 proof (50% ABV) — the 1864 formula is bottled at higher strength.
What casks is it matured in?
Sherry and bourbon casks, non-chill-filtered.
Who makes Black Bull?
Duncan Taylor Scotch Whisky Ltd of Huntly, Aberdeenshire, which revived the brand in 2001.
What awards has it won?
Silver at the People's Choice Spirits Awards and two-time Gold at the World Whisky Awards.
An old-school, full-strength blend — buy Black Bull 21 Year Old Scotch Whisky online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.