Following a thrilling 2024 and the celebration of its 20th anniversary, Chambar is proud to introduce a dynamic new team of sommeliers taking the reins of its wine program. On March 12, the acclaimed restaurant will also be hosting an exciting Winemaker’s Dinner in collaboration with Clos du Soleil and alumni UBC. The new wine leaders and the exciting upcoming dinner event signal a fresh chapter for Chambar—one rooted in innovation, connection, and exceptional culinary experiences.
Leading the charge as Co-Wine Directors are Alex Catto and Aimbree Bystrom, two individuals with remarkable journeys that have brought them to Chambar’s celebrated table. Alex, originally from Somerset, England, developed a love for wine during his time working in New Zealand’s Central Otago and Wellington. After earning certifications from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust in Europe, Alex honed his craft at Melbourne’s prestigious City Wine Shop before making his way to British Columbia, landing first in the Okanagan. His experience as a sommelier at Vancouver’s Hawksworth Restaurant has now led him to Chambar, where he is ready to share his expertise with guests.
Aimbree Bystrom’s path began in Alberta, where her early memories of her grandfather’s winemaking planted the seeds of her passion. Initially pursuing acting in Vancouver, she discovered a different form of storytelling through wine. Aimbree’s talents quickly stood out at Chambar, where she joined the team in 2023 and rose to Co-Wine Director in September 2024. Together with Alex, Aimbree is committed to crafting a wine experience that elevates Chambar’s vibrant, globally inspired menu.
Guests will have the chance to meet Alex and Aimbree during the Chambar x Clos du Soleil Winemaker’s Dinner on Wednesday, March 12, at 6 p.m. The evening promises a sumptuous four-course long-table dinner expertly paired with five wines from Clos du Soleil, one of British Columbia’s most distinguished artisanal wineries. A UBC grad, Clos du Soleil’s Winemaker and Managing Director, Michael Clark, will co-host the event alongside Chambar’s culinary and wine teams, sharing insights from his 14 years of crafting wines that embody the unique terroir of the Similkameen Valley’s Upper Bench.
The menu for the evening reflects Chambar’s signature blend of bold flavours and refined techniques. From the pan-seared scallop with crispy pork jowl and pickled vegetable salad to the sage and yogurt ice cream with caramelized seeds, each dish will be thoughtfully paired with Clos du Soleil’s exceptional wines, including their flagship 2020 Signature and the late-harvest 2022 Saturn. This collaboration marks the continuation of a partnership that began in 2018 and highlights Chambar’s dedication to fostering meaningful connections through food and wine.
“Reaching our 20th anniversary is both a celebration and an opportunity to look forward,” says Nico Schuermans, Chambar’s Co-Owner and Chef. “Having Alex and Aimbree on board allows us to continue innovating while staying true to the core values that have defined Chambar for two decades. Collaborating with Clos du Soleil and Michael Clark is the perfect way to share this moment with our community.”
Karri Green, Co-Owner and Principal of Chambar, adds, “This event is just the beginning of a new era for Chambar. With more intimate dining experience and innovative collaborations, 2025 will be a fantastic year of connection and culinary exploration at Chambar.”
TICKETS
Tickets for the Chambar x Clos du Soleil Winemaker’s Dinner are $195 per person (including tax & gratuity) and can be purchased at chambar.com/events/upcoming-events. Seating is limited, making this an intimate and exclusive evening for wine and food enthusiasts alike.
Chambar’s New Co-Wine Directors Take the Helm as Restaurant Prepares for Exclusive Clos du Soleil Winemaker’s Dinner
