Sumac Ridge Estate Winery was a trailblazer in British Columbia's wine scene. Founded in 1979 by Harry McWatters, often hailed as the "Godfather of BC Wine," this estate set numerous firsts in the industry. From pioneering sparkling wines to establishing the first winery restaurant in the province, Sumac Ridge continually pushed the boundaries until its closure in 2023.
Breaking New Ground
Harry McWatters' vision for Sumac Ridge was revolutionary. He purchased the Sumac Ridge Golf Club together with a partner and was able to get the restrictive license regulations under cottage wineries in the 70's that were unsuccessful changed to estate wineries which gave them a business model that made sense. As the first estate winery in BC, it introduced many innovations. Sumac Ridge was the first to produce a commercially successful sparkling wine and to use the Meritage designation on its Bordeaux blends. It also became the first Okanagan winery to release a $50 bottle, marking a significant step in elevating the region's wine profile. At its peak, Sumac Ridge's Private Reserve Gewürztraminer was the top-selling homegrown white wine in BC.
A Legacy of Firsts
Sumac Ridge's influence extended beyond its products. The winery was instrumental in popularizing Gewürztraminer in the region and set standards for quality that others have followed. The estate's impact is also seen in its establishment of the first winery restaurant in BC, creating a model that many others have adopted. These contributions made Sumac Ridge a cornerstone of the BC wine industry.
Transition and Continuity
In 2000, Sumac Ridge was acquired by Vincor Canada, now known as Arterra Wines. Despite changes in ownership, Sumac Ridge continued to produce its celebrated wines, including the renowned Steller’s Jay sparkling and Black Sage brands, until the closure of its retail and winemaking operations in Summerland in 2023. Production has since been relocated to Arterra's facility in Oliver, ensuring that the legacy of Sumac Ridge lives on through its wines.
Specials to Savour
Sumac Ridge offered a variety of wines that catered to diverse tastes. The Steller’s Jay Brut was a standout, celebrated for its crisp and refreshing profile. Another favourite was the Black Sage Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its rich and robust flavours. These wines, among others, remain available through various retailers and the Great Estates Okanagan website, ensuring that Sumac Ridge's legacy continues to be enjoyed by wine enthusiasts across the region.
A Lasting Impact
Harry McWatters' influence on the BC wine industry is immeasurable. He navigated significant challenges, including the Free Trade Agreement and NAFTA, always advocating for the industry's growth and development. His efforts paved the way for the thriving wine culture that exists in BC today. Sumac Ridge embodied the pioneering spirit and vision of Harry that has driven the region's wine industry forward.
