Wine lovers take note: Black Hills Estate Winery is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its flagship wine, Nota Bene, with a big splash.

Actor Jason Priestly, musician Steven Page (formerly of the Barenaked Ladies), and hip-hop musician Prevail (Swollen Members) are among the high-profile Canadians who will party down, virtually, with ticketholders at an online party on July 17.

The Nota Bene has become an iconic BC wine, with the 2018 vintage being the first crafted by winemaker Ross Wise, Master of Wine. It’s a blend of 49 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 41 percent Merlot, nine percent Cabernet Franc, and—for the first time—one percent Petit Verdot.

Luscious and complex, the wine has aromas of ripe black fruits (think mulberries and plums) and a flavour profile marked by blackberries, mocha, and dried herbs. Take it to the next level by serving it with barbecued ribs or steak.

“Under Wise’s advice, the new vintage features a touch of Petit Verdot for added richness and complexity,” Glenn Fawcett, Black Hills’ “chief wine evangelist”, tells the Straight. “An important milestone like the 20th anniversary of this iconic wine demanded a party like no other.”

Although the winery sold out of regular bottles of the coveted drink faster than you can say “take note”, it has accelerated the release of the Nota Bene 2018 large formats: magnums (1.5L) and 3L bottles.

People who purchase prior to Tuesday (July 14) will gain exclusive access to the celebration.  (These wines aren’t usually released until August, but due to large demand for access to the exclusive online activities, it is on sale early—a first.) 

The party features a wine tasting with a live performance by Page and the chance to connect with Priestly, Prevail, and Olympics medal-winning freestyle skier Kelsey Serwa, among others.

Then there’s the after-party, which consists of multiple “rooms” to check out, which will include a live performance by country singer Julianna Laine and a set by DJ Chloe Morgan. There will be a Q&A with the winemaker and an on-the-crush-pad networking session and more.  

Situated on Black Sage Road between Osoyoos and Oliver, Black Hills grows four clones of Cabernet Sauvignon, two clones of Cabernet Franc, and four clones of Merlot, each with its own unique terroir and character. Nota Bene magnums (1.5L) are $199 and the 3L bottles are $379. Each large format wine is autographed by Wise. 

Tickets and info are at www.blackhillswinery.com.