Wonders of Wine and Food

 

Good Bye Sumac Ridge

Since 1975 the success of the Canadian wine Industry has prospered. They produce wines equal to any of those produced by the old world. 1975 was the year Inniskillian opened under co-owners Donald Ziraldo and Karl Kaiser. 

Not long after in 1979 Harry McWatters and Lloyd Schmidt founded Sumac Ridge. It became a stable among BC wine lovers. Sumac Ridge was the first BC  Okanagan winery produce a Sparkling wine. They also became know for their port -style wines. The winery was sold to Vincor International  in 2000. 

In 2016 Vincor's Canadian interests were bought by the Ontario Teacher's Pension found. They changed the Name to Arterra Wines Canada.

The history of Canada's wineries shows a continuous pattern of opening and closing, bought or sold. Sadly Arterra has decided to close the winery as of April 15th 2023.

Sumac was the first BC winery to produce Meritage and the first to sell wine at $50.00. They were know for their Stellar Jay Sparkling wine. The first to have a restaurant in the Okanagan.

Although the winery is gone the Label will be retained the wines will be produced at Arterra's Oliver facilities.

It is sad to see these wineries go. Us older folks will remember Cartier Wines, T G Brights Wines, Victoria Wine, Jordan Wines, London Winery, Chateau - Gai, Calona Wines and so many others.

It is a changing world.

Noted Winemaker and Consultant made this statement

Until large wine corporations realize they are buying more than a brand, this will happen at property after property. Before being purchased, these places were what connected the wine lover to the brand. Not only the places, but more importantly, the people that welcomed you, gave anecdotes, made travel recommendations, and allowed you some quiet time to sit with a special person.

Please read

Harry McWatters

History of Canada's Wineries