First Estate Winery

One of BC's original wineries launched in 1972. The winery first opened as Chateau Jonn de Trepanier. The Chateau was believed to be the first winery to use 100% BC Grapes. In 1979 the winery was sold to winemaker Bob Claremont and renamed Claremont Estates Winery. Problems plagued the winery and it fell into receivership in 1986, only to resurface as Chateau Ste. Claire. The winery went through a number of turmoil years and the vineyards were neglected until 1998 when Gary Strachan and Nancy Johnston purchased the property. Unfortunately their hard work did not pay off and the winery once again went into receivership.