Black Hills Estate Winery 2011 Nota Bene - 91pts

Black Hills Estate Winery 2011 Nota Bene (Black Sage Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC 

Availability: Sold out at the winery. Some VQA and private wine shops have it in stock
Cost: $54-60
Alcohol: 14%
Date Tasted: October 26th, 2013

Tasting Notes: Even in cold, difficult vintages, the Black Hills team deliver a Nota Bene worthy of the on-going intrigue and exclusivity the brand has earned through years of sold-out wines and effective marketing. Some years are better than others, but, I've yet to be disappointed with the released wine.


The 2011 is no exception. A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, all sourced from their famed Black Sage Bench estate vineyard which imparts an herbal quality to the wine augmenting the classic Meritage profile of black currant, blackberry, fresh tobacco leaf and dark plum aromas and flavours. Along with the potent fruit and fine tannins, the 2011 boasts a smoky texture, layers of savoury flavours and the right amount of acid to keep the medium-plus bodied palate vibrant.

As with all Nota Bene releases, lay a few down in your cellar for further development, though the 2011 may not evolve as much the past few vintages. Drink 2014-2018+.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2013 IconWines.ca

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