The legacy continues for TIME Winery, Evolve Cellars and the McWatters Collection. Five Vine Cellars bought the wine properties on July 1, 2020.
Ron and Shelley Mayert, owners of Five Vines Cellars, are excited to continue to grow winemaker legend Harry McWatters’ family legacy.
Harry McWatters, pioneer of BC wine industry
Prominent B.C. wine industry icon Harry McWatters passed away unexpectedly on July 23, 2019 at age 74. McWatters was proud to have been in the wine business longer than anyone in Canada.
McWatters, founder and owner of TIME Winery and Evolve Cellars in Penticton, celebrated his 51st vintage in the Okanagan Valley in 2018.
In 1980, McWatters founded Sumac Ridge Estate Winery. He was also the founder of See Ya Later Ranch Estate Winery and the Wine Festivals Society.
Harry McWatters was a great BC wine pioneer at Time Winery, Penticton. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Ron and Shelley Mayert join the BC wine community
“We are honoured to join the BC wine community and are excited about making world class wines from one of the most unique and beautiful wine valleys in the world. Our family grew up appreciating the spirit and neighbourly hospitality from the people of the Okanagan Valley; we want to instill that spirit in everything we do,” says Ron.
New winery owners Ron and Shelley Mayert purchased TIME Winery, Evolve Cellars and the McWatters Collection on July 1, 2020. Photo: Chris Stenberg
TIME Winery and Evolve Cellars are located in Penticton, BC. Photo: Chris Stenberg
“The McWatters’ longstanding reputation is irreplaceable, and we will always honour the legacy that Harry, Christa-Lee and Darrien have brought to the Canadian wine industry,” remarks Ron Mayert, owner TIME Winery.
Christa-Lee McWatters, general manager of TIME Winery, is looking forward to this new future for the winery. “It’s been a massive challenge since last year,” she notes. “The Mayerts could not be the more perfect people to join the winery, and bring both the experience and wines to the next level. We’re excited to continue to be a family-run winery.”
The tasting room and wine shop are open daily 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm and the kitchen is open Thursday – Sunday – 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm.
Make a reservation before you visit for the best experience due to COVID-19 social distancing and protocols.
Location: 361 Martin Street, Penticton, BC
Video interview of Harry McWatters
Here is my video interview of Harry McWatters when I visited the newly opened Time Winery on October 17, 2018.
Harry McWatters great BC wine pioneer at Time Winery, Penticton. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Award winning wines at Time Winery Pentiction – Harry McWatters, pioneer of BC wine industry. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, a travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW and NATJA.
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