The History of Osborne

Osborne originated at the end of the 18th century when the young English merchant Thomas Osborne Mann came to the Cádiz region to sell wines. He quickly began doing business in El Puerto de Santa María, where he acquired several wineries. These businesses were brought together under one brand: Osborne. Today, Osborne is a globally recognized company, known for its wines, brandy, and the iconic bull.

The Birth of the Osborne Bull

In 1956, Osborne commissioned the advertising agency Azor to promote its Veterano brandy. The agency, led by designer Manolo Prieto, created the legendary Osborne bull. This design changed the way brands were presented in Spain. It became an unmistakable symbol of Spanish culture and was quickly associated with the Osborne brand itself.

The Iconic Osborne Bull

The first Osborne bull was installed in 1957 in Cabanillas de la Sierra (Madrid). The billboard stood 4 meters tall and was made of wood. Over the years, the design was improved, making the bull larger and sturdier. In 1961, the first 7-meter-high bull made of sheet metal was placed, which was more resistant to the elements. This design removed the original white horns to give the bull a minimalist and powerful look.

From Advertisement to National Symbol

Originally, the Osborne bull was intended to promote a specific brand of brandy, but it soon grew into a national symbol. It is now an iconic image of Spain, comparable to famous landmarks such as the Sagrada Familia and flamenco. The bull is globally recognized as a representative of Spanish culture and pride.