Evolve, the latest addition to the TIME Family of Wines, is dedicated to traditional-method sparkling wines, and right out of the gate has won many prestigious awards on both the national and international stage.
The modern, chic tasting room was designed to impress. Every detail celebrates bubbles–from the sparkling décor to the playful energy that runs through the space.
Indoors or out, there are plenty of inviting spots to sip, savour, and soak in the spectacular views across Okanagan Lake.
A spirit of joie de vivre flows through every corner of the property.
The grounds are beautifully landscaped, reflecting the brand’s elegance and accessibility. Thoughtful design features, such as gentle ramps, make it easy for everyone to enjoy.
Family-friendly areas ensure kids are welcome too, and there’s no shortage of photo-worthy backdrops.
First, some background. Bubbles were always a favourite of TIME winery founder, the late Harry McWatters, and he passed that gene on to his daughter, Christa-Lee McWatters (now with Adega on 45th in Osoyoos). Harry was the creator of one of the first, and ever-popular, Steller’s Jay, introduced pre-1990 from his then Sumac Ridge winery.
Harry opened TIME winery in 2015, but sadly passed in 2019 and shortly after, the winery was sold to Ron and Shelley Mayert, who transitioned the winery name to Chronos. Since 2021, The TIME Family of Wines has grown and now includes Chronos Winery, Orolo Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, as well as the newly opened Evolve Sparkling House.
Perched above the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, Evolve was designed to complement its Mediterranean-like surroundings, featuring a stunning patio with sweeping views of Penticton and Summerland’s Giant’s Head Mountain across the lake.
The property includes 23 acres of vineyards planted to Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier, the classic grapes of Champagne.
Evolve’s leadership team blends experience, innovation, and genuine local pride:
George James, President
Lynzee Shatz, winemaker
Anna Patterson, Estate Manager – Okanagan born and bred, with experience both in the cellar and front of house
Anahita Pouget, Director of Brand Development and Marketing, and
Bruno Terroso, Orolo Executive Chef (formerly of The Vanilla Pod/Poplar Grove), is overseeing food at Evolve.
Together, they’ve built a brand that pairs exceptional craftsmanship with a welcoming, contemporary experience.
Traditional-method sparkling wines are famously food-friendly—pairing beautifully with everything from soups, and appetizers, fish, fowl, meats, and even many desserts. Classic pairings include oysters, smoked salmon, Asian-inspired dishes, and creamy cheeses. At the media launch, Chef Bruno prepared an array of bites that matched each wine perfectly.
Brut Nature 2018
$49.99
A blend of 50% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir, and 10% Pinot Blanc, the Pinot Blanc adds texture while maintaining acidity. Pale straw with medium-minus intensity. Notes of fresh bread crust, ripe apple, pear, and lemon peel. Good balance with a lively mousse. The age lends depth and complexity, leading to a mouth-watering finish.
91+ Points
Served with freshly shucked West Coast Oysters on the half shell, basil and chili mignonette, and shaved Summerland peach.
Brut Rosé 2018
$49.99
Slightly more Pinot Noir is this cuvee, with a touch of Syrah dosage for colour. Strawberry orange in colour with a medium-light intensity. Delicate red fruit on the nose, brioche, white flowers, and well-integrated lees. Good balance with a nice mousse. The flavours follow the nose, followed by a medium-plus, crisp finish.
92 Points
Brut Premier 2020
$39.00
A blend of 67% Chardonnay and 33% Pinot Noir, with 5 g/L RS.
Lemon yellow with medium-minus intensity. Delicate fruit, floral notes, citrus zest, and a touch of lees on the nose. Good balance and a creamy, pleasing mousse. The flavours echo the nose, followed by a medium finish. Fresh, crisp, and perfectly suited for oysters.
91 Points
This was paired with Salmon Rillettes – Butter-poached Pacific salmon, smoked salmon, dill, chilli oil, and fennel crisp.
Between samples, I managed to catch up with Okanagan-born and raised, winemaker Lynzee Shatz, who has spent two decades in the wine industry, including a stint at Chandon in Australia’s Yarra Valley, shared her enthusiasm: “These are exciting times. I’m thrilled to be expanding our sparkling lineup with higher-end bubbles. It’s incredible to see how far the BC wine industry has come—and to be part of its evolution.” Lynzee’s approach blends classic technique with a modern Okanagan sensibility, and her wines reflect both precision and personality.
Rosé 2023 (Wine Club exclusive)
$29.99
This small lot wine is made with Syrah from the Solner Vineyard near La Stella in Osoyoos. A beautiful orange hue with medium-minus intensity. The nose is inviting with orange zest, strawberry, and cherry notes. Good balance with a creamy texture. The flavours mirror the nose. A medium-long finish. Winemaker Lynzee described this wine as being “like a 12-year-old flower girl”—an unusual but perfectly apt description once you taste it. A versatile food wine.
90 Points
Grenache 2022 (Wine Club exclusive)
$39.99
Made using carbonic maceration and partial new oak. Garnet/cherry red with medium intensity. Bright red cherry and a steely minerality on the nose. Good balance. Pleasing on the palate followed by a medium-long finish. A delightful wine and one that can be served slightly chilled.
90 Points
Sparkling wine isn’t just for special occasions—it’s for any day worth celebrating. With top-tier bubbles crafted here in the Okanagan, there’s every reason to pop a cork.
Evolve offers a range of tasting experiences, including curated food-pairing flights designed by Chef Bruno.
Visit their website for details.
timewines.ca/evolve-sparkling-house
You can also find them on social media: @evolvesparkling
To learn more, contact Anna at:
anna.patterson@nullevolvesparkling.ca
You’ll find Evolve at 245 Lower Bench Road in Penticton on the way to Naramata.
(All photos – Sam Hauck)