Who is the founder of Bully Hill Winery?

Answered by Bill Hernandez

The founder of Bully Hill Winery is Walter Taylor. He played a significant role in establishing one of the first small estate wineries in the Keuka Lake area since Prohibition. However, the journey to the creation of Bully Hill was not without its challenges and setbacks.

In May 1970, Walter Taylor faced a major setback in his career when he was fired from the Taylor Company, a renowned winery founded by his family. This event could have been devastating for most individuals, but Taylor saw it as an opportunity to forge his own path in the wine industry.

With a determination to create something unique and independent, Taylor joined forces with Greyton Taylor, another Taylor Wine Company family member, to establish Bully Hill Winery in the same year he was fired. The two Taylors shared the vision of crafting exceptional wines in the Keuka Lake region, known for its picturesque beauty and favorable grape-growing conditions.

Unfortunately, tragedy struck the newly formed Bully Hill Winery when Greyton Taylor passed away in 1971. This unexpected loss must have been a devastating blow to Walter Taylor, not only on a personal level but also from a business perspective. However, he persevered and inherited Greyton's shares of ownership in Bully Hill, solidifying his position as the sole founder and owner of the winery.

Walter Taylor's passion for winemaking and his desire to create something extraordinary drove him to overcome the challenges he faced. He dedicated himself to building Bully Hill into a successful and respected winery, known for its high-quality wines and unique approach to winemaking.

Having visited Bully Hill Winery myself, I can attest to the incredible atmosphere and the sense of history that permeates the place. The winery's beautiful location overlooking Keuka Lake adds to its charm, creating an idyllic setting for wine enthusiasts to indulge in the sensory experience of wine tasting.

Walter Taylor's legacy as the founder of Bully Hill Winery extends beyond his initial vision. He not only established a successful winery but also contributed to the growth and reputation of the Keuka Lake wine region. His innovative spirit and dedication to crafting exceptional wines have left an indelible mark on the world of winemaking.

Walter Taylor is the founder of Bully Hill Winery. His journey from being fired from the Taylor Wine Company to establishing his own winery showcases his resilience, determination, and passion for winemaking. His legacy lives on through the exceptional wines produced at Bully Hill and the impact he has made on the Keuka Lake wine region.