British Columbia’s wine industry is mourning the passing of Harry McWatters, a pioneer who witnessed 50 vintages in his career. He died in Summerland on July 23, about a year after his newest venture, Time Winery, opened in Penticton.

He is best known for founding Sumac Ridge and See Ya Later wineries.  

The provincial farm newspaper, Country Life in BC, reports that he was instrumental in establishing the BC VQA system and played a key role in later reforms. He was an advocate for the creation of new sub-appellations in regions such as the Fraser Valley. 

McWatters observed, with pride, the growth of the BC wine industry. Wines made entirely from BC grapes now account for 19 per cent of all wine sales (in litres) in the province. 

Source:  Country Life in BC