Ross Wise at Black Hills Estate Winery. Lionel Trudel Photo.

Black Hills Estate Winery (Black Hills) is excited to announce its new head winemaker, Ross Wise.

Wise brings with him a breadth of expertise to the role of head winemaker at Black Hills Estate Winery. Originally from New Zealand, Wise holds a Bachelor of Viticulture and Advanced diploma in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University in Australia. He has worked with renowned producers in New Zealand and Ontario before the cool climate wine industry in British Columbia drew his attention.

After 16 years of winemaking, viticulture and consulting experience, Wise and his family settled in Oliver, British Columbia. Prior to Black Hills, Wise was head winemaker and general manager at Phantom Creek Estate. Wise holds a WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines and Spirits and is pursuing his Master of Wine.

“We are thrilled have Ross join us at Black Hills,” enthuses Glenn Fawcett, chief wine evangelist. “We conducted a wide-ranging international search for our new winemaker that resulted in several outstanding candidates, and Ross stood out for us.”

Fawcett continues, “His passion for the craft and our Black Sage Road terroir, combined with his extensive experience, academic credentials, and endearing personality, made his selection a natural for us.”

Wise is keen to assume the new role. “I’m really looking forward to joining the Black Hills team in January,” he notes. “This is a great opportunity to be part of the next chapter of one of the Okanagan’s most recognized and respected wineries. The ability to focus on making premium red wines such as Nota Bene,” he continues, “is a big draw for me.”

Wise is eager to get to know the Black Hills Estate vineyards intimately to make wines that clearly reflect their origins. “I hope to continue to elevate the outstanding quality of Black Hills wines, using precision and high attention to detail in the vineyard, combined with gentle and thoughtful winemaking,” he shares.

Fawcett is equally excited. “We are extremely confident that Ross Wise is the perfect person to carry the winemaking torch at Black Hills and help us continue our journey to the next level.”

Wise joins the winery team effective January 7, 2019.

Vitis Magazine

Vitis is is an indispensable seasonal guide for vintners, sommeliers and weekend imbibers alike that is dedicated to British Columbia’s rapidly evolving wine culture.