A new journey begins.
In Surrey, British Columbia, a new chapter in the province’s wine story is unfolding. Once known as Cavallo Estate Winery, the property has been reborn as Gate 22 Winery—a sleek, modern destination where creativity and craft are setting a new standard in BC wine.
“When we took on the property, we wanted to create a destination that feels both modern and approachable,” says Christa-Lee McWatters, VP of the Gate 22 team. “Our goal was to make wines that express a true sense of place while inspiring curiosity for what’s possible.”
That philosophy has become the heartbeat of Gate 22, shaping not just its wines but every guest experience, from the first pour to the final sip.
Christa-Lee McWatters.
The name Gate 22 captures the winery’s sense of movement and discovery. “‘Gate’ represents a point of entry, a place of transition,” McWatters explains. “‘22’ connects to our location just off 192nd Street on 22 Avenue, but it’s also a nod to our ownership group’s ties to Boundary Bay Airport. Like an airport gate, it’s a place where journeys begin.”
The new name marks a bold break from the past. “The relaunch allowed us to start with a clean slate,” McWatters says. “It’s a complete re-envisioning of the property—new energy, new wines, and a new purpose rooted in quality and innovation.”
Behind this transformation is the same experienced team that acquired Adega on 45th in Osoyoos last year, bringing their combined expertise and passion for BC wine to both properties. That connection provides Gate 22 with direct access to premium South Okanagan fruit and a deep understanding of what makes BC’s southernmost vineyards so distinctive.
The vineyard in Osoyoos.
At the helm of winemaking is Karen Leung, a respected Okanagan veteran with more than 25 years of experience. Leung also serves as winemaker at Adega on 45th, a dual role that allows her to draw on a broad range of Okanagan vineyards and techniques while bringing a cohesive winemaking philosophy to both brands.
While Cavallo once looked south to California for its grapes, Gate 22’s first vintage under new ownership celebrates BC from vine to glass.
Into the barrel room.
“Our current wines are made entirely from BC fruit; from our own vineyard in Osoyoos and from trusted growers in the South Okanagan,” McWatters says. “We’re proud to be part of the BC story and to contribute a slightly different perspective.”
That said, the team isn’t closing the door on its California roots. In time, Gate 22 plans to collaborate again with prestigious Napa and Sonoma vineyards.
A great visitor experience.
“Combining BC and California fruit will allow us to explore a broader stylistic range and express a wider sense of terroir,” McWatters explains. “It’s about connecting BC craftsmanship with world-class vineyards beyond our borders.”
Regardless of origin, Gate 22 wines share a consistent signature: clean, bold, and elegant. “We respect the individuality of each vineyard, but there’s always a Gate 22 thread: precision, balance, and drinkability,” McWatters says.
Visitors to the Surrey tasting room have responded with enthusiasm. “Guests love the bold, expressive style of our wines and are just as excited about what’s next, especially our upcoming whites from Osoyoos that showcase a fresh local expression of Gate 22’s approach.”
Education and storytelling are woven into the Gate 22 experience. “Whether we’re talking about the desert heat of Osoyoos or the volcanic soils of Napa, we want guests to appreciate how place shapes character,” says McWatters. “It’s about helping people connect the dots between vineyard, climate, and craft.”
The wine bar at Gate 22.
This makes Gate 22 a perfect stop for travelers exploring BC’s emerging Fraser Valley wine scene offering an experience that blends tasting, learning, and leisure.
Gate 22’s debut collection includes Ton of Brix, The Manifest, and Navigator; three red blends that showcase power and polish. Coming this fall are Expedition and a wine club–exclusive Pinot Noir.
For the 2025 vintage, the winery will expand its portfolio with a BCVQA Riesling, Chardonnay, Rosé, and sparkling wine, deepening its commitment to quality and place.
As McWatters puts it: “Our long-term vision blends BC’s precision and vibrancy with California’s structure and richness, all crafted here in Surrey. At Gate 22, it’s not just about where the wine comes from, but where it can take you.”
We have an idea…
150-19288 22nd Ave,
Surrey, BC V3Z 3S6
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