When Sumac Ridge Estate Winery began its operations in 1981, it was the first estate winery in British Columbia.
Now, three decades later, estate wineries have sprung up around the province but Sumac Ridge continues to hold a unique place in the province’s wine industry.
The winery, which celebrates its 30th anniversary on July 11, has worked to continue its tradition of winemaking excellence.
The winery has gone through plenty of changes since Harry McWatters and Lloyd Schmidt became partners and bought the property for the winery.
Around a decade ago, the winery was sold to Vincor, but it continues the tradition and emphasis on quality it had from its earlier years.
“We’ve carried on what the McWatters family and Harry’s partner started,” said Jodie Hopper, guest services manager at Sumac Ridge.
The winery still uses the same vineyards and puts the same efforts into making wines as it did in the early 1980s, she added.
For the next 30 years, Hopper hopes the winery will continue what it is doing.
“I would like to see more of the same — people producing amazing wines,” she said. “I hope our wines are still as respected as they were 30 years ago, when we produced our first Gewürztraminer.”
Over the years, McWatters has worked to strengthen the reputation of the Canadian wine industry.
He was the founding chair of the British Columbia Wine Institute and the Vintner Quality Alliance Canada. The VQA standards for wine quality are used to label wines.
Over the years, Sumac Ridge has received numerous awards for its wines. The Black Sage Vineyard, purchased in 1992 and planted in 1993, has received more awards for its fruit than any other vineyard in Canada.
For its 30th anniversary, the winery has produced a special wine called Tribute.
In addition, special events are planned at the winery July 8 to 10.
On Monday, July 11, the birthday of the winery, celebrations are planned from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. The band Uncorked will perform at the celebrations.