Photo: Contributed
Penticton’s Time Winery has found new owners following last year’s unexpected passing of Harry McWatters, the grandfather of B.C. wine.
Ron and Shelley Mayert, who run a family business called Five Vines Cellars, took ownership of Time Winery, Evolve Cellars and the McWatters Collection labels on Wednesday.
“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,” Ron Mayert said in a press release.
Harry’s daughter, Christa-Lee, will remain in the organization as Time Winery’s general manager, while son Darrien will continue as operations manager. A.K. Campbell will stay on as chef, and winemaker Lynzee Schatz will remain in her role as well.
“We are thrilled that Christa-Lee and Darrien will stay on to help us continue to grow Time Winery,” Ron said. “Our family’s vision is to always strive to be dreamers that create amazing, cutting-edge wines to be enjoyed with family and friends, one glass at a time. It is our guarantee to you, that our wines will be handcrafted in small batches from our family with a friendly approach that exemplifies the highest standards in the industry.”
Ron Mayert was born and raised in Summerland, while Shelley hails from the Fraser Valley. Before getting into the wine industry, Ron Mayert was a co-founder of Petcurean Pet Nutrition and Old Yale Brewing in Chilliwack, and Napa Vineyard Inn in California.
Christa-Lee McWatters is excited to see what the future holds for the winery started by her father.
“It’s been a massive challenge since last year,” McWatters said. “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.”
All Biz Releases Stories
