If one could live at a winery, Black Hills Estate Winery might be at the top of the list. The tasting room here is in the middle of the vineyards and there’s a pool in which to dip your toes. Nestled between Osoyoos and Oliver, in the middle of Canada’s only official desert, Black Hills offers a spectacular setting for wine-tasting.
The estate is also optimally positioned for producing mouth-watering grapes. Located on the Black Sage Bench, overlooking the Okanagan Valley, Black Hills sees more sunlight hours throughout the months of June through August, than the world-renowned Napa Valley. The intensely dry and hot days, accompanied by cool nights, perfectly marry to provide ideal conditions for growing first-class grapes.
“People can taste our wine while looking at where it comes from — it’s all grown right here,” said Glenn Fawcett, Director of Black Hills Estate Winery. “We’re thrilled to be a part of the Okanagan, and so excited to be a part of this wine scene. Black Sage Road is right in the heart of the best red wine growing region in the country.”
A part of the Black Hills family for the past 11 years, Fawcett has seen a lot of change in the area. A decade ago, the area was quiet after 2 pm on a summer day. Now, the area is bustling from sunrise to sun down.
This year, Black Hills is taking the wine-tasting experience to a whole new level by incorporating all of the senses, especially the sense of smell.
Their brand new sensory experience will focus on aroma compounds often found in wine. By isolating 32 aromas, guests will able to identify 32 impressions that can be left on one’s palate.
Groups will have the opportunity to smell various scents in tandem with their wine tasting, in order to draw out what they’re uniquely noticing. While some may pick out hints of maraschino cherry, some might smell a cigar box.
“Wine is such an individual experience,” says Fawcett. “I think having the opportunity to expand the horizon and try to identify taste and nose profiles will allow the visitor to get a different perspective on wine and a better understanding of the tasting experience.”
The full portfolio flight, guided by a knowledgeable wine evangelist, will go through six different wines. Guests will be able to cross reference what they smell, with particular scents specifically connected to the wine.
The $40 sensory experience starts May 11, with seatings at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm on weekdays, and 10:30 am on weekends. To reserve this exciting experience, call the family winery team at 250-498-0666.