Gate 22 Winery Acquires Adega on 45th Estate Winery in Osoyoos, BC
Investment Reflects Optimism in BC Wine Industry
and Commitment to Local Terroir
The team at Gate 22 Winery is pleased to announce its acquisition of Adega on 45th Estate Winery, a beloved family-owned winery in the heart of Osoyoos, British Columbia. This acquisition is spearheaded by a group of investors with extensive entrepreneurial experience, having founded several successful businesses globally.
The acquisition of Adega on 45th reflects the Gate 22 team’s optimism and strong belief in the potential of the British Columbia wine industry, and their ambition to showcase the unique terroir of the Okanagan Valley. By securing this 19-acre vineyard, Gate 22 now has access to premium BC-grown fruit and is actively farming its own land, ensuring greater control over quality and sustainability.
A Legacy of Tradition and Quality
Maria Nunes and her brother, Fred Farinha, founded Adega on 45th in 2011 on their family farm, alongside their spouses, Alex and Pamala, establishing it as a cornerstone of the Okanagan wine community. The winery blends old-world charm with new-world innovation, offering visitors stunning views of Osoyoos sunsets from its inviting patio. The Nunes and Farinha families, deeply rooted in the local agricultural community since 1966, are proud to pass the torch to Gate 22’s experienced leadership team.
“We couldn’t be happier to see Adega on 45th enter this new chapter,” says the family. “The team at Gate 22 shares our passion for winemaking and hospitality. We’re confident they will elevate Adega while honouring the spirit of what we’ve built.”
Women-Led Team with Deep Roots in BC Wine
The Adega on 45th leadership team includes president Melissa Sayers, vice president Christa-Lee McWatters and winemaker Karen Yeung. McWatters, who joined Gate 22 in 2024, will now oversee day-to-day operations for both Adega on 45th and Gate 22. Christa-Lee, daughter of BC wine pioneer Harry McWatters, has deep ties to the BC wine industry and has held key roles in sales, marketing, and hospitality at several successful Okanagan wineries. She also served as Board Chair for Wine Growers British Columbia for multiple terms.
Joining the women-led leadership team is celebrated winemaker and vineyard manager Karen Yeung. With more than 25 years in the industry, Karen is known for her award-winning wines and hands-on vineyard expertise, bringing invaluable knowledge and passion to Adega’s next chapter.
Karen Valckx, who has been the Adega on 45th tasting room supervisor for eight years, continues her role in welcoming visitors and offering warm, wine country hospitality.
A Bright Future for Adega on 45th
The Gate 22 Winery team plans to honour Adega Winery’s heritage while introducing new experiences and innovations. The iconic bell tower—a nod to the founders’ Portuguese roots—will remain, and the winery’s warm, European-inspired ambiance will continue to welcome guests.
“Our vision is to blend tradition with curiosity,” said Christa-Lee McWatters, vice president of Gate 22 Winery. “We are excited to contribute to the vibrant Osoyoos community, build upon Adega’s strong foundations, and share our passion for BC wine with a broader audience.”
About Adega on 45th Estate Winery
Located in the picturesque landscape of Osoyoos, British Columbia, Adega on 45th Estate Winery has been a cherished family-owned winery since 2011.
Founded by the Nunes and Farinha families, Adega (Portuguese for ‘cellar’) draws from a rich agricultural heritage that began with tree fruit farming in 1966 and evolved into producing exceptional wines. The winery combines old-world charm with new-world innovation, offering guests a welcoming European-inspired atmosphere, complete with an iconic bell tower and panoramic views of stunning Osoyoos sunsets. Now part of the Gate 22 Winery family, Adega on 45th embarks on an exciting new chapter, continuing to celebrate its Portuguese roots while exploring new opportunities for growth and innovation under expert leadership.
About Gate 22 Winery
Gate 22 Winery is an innovative winery that produces exceptional wines in British Columbia using premium grapes sourced from renowned vineyards in the United States. With a focus on curiosity and the freedom to explore diverse terroirs, Gate 22 selects grapes from award-winning vineyards such as Stagecoach Vineyard in the Atlas Peak AVA, George the Third Vineyard in Rutherford, and Los Amigas Vineyard in Los Carneros. The handpicked fruit is gently pressed and transported to BC within 24 hours, where the winemaking process—fermentation, barreling, and bottling—unfolds under the guidance of Gate 22’s expert team. This unique approach allows Gate 22 to craft wines that are full-bodied, rich with stories, and offer a distinctive, memorable experience for wine enthusiasts.
Media release and images provided by Sierra Simpson, Town Hall Brands.
