Several Canadian industries felt the impact of the trade dispute with the United States that began earlier this year under the Trump administration. However, the “Buy Canadian” movement has brought a surge of support to local winemakers, reshaping consumer behavior and boosting domestic sales.
In response to U.S. tariffs, provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, and Alberta removed American alcohol products from their shelves, leading to significant shifts in consumer preferences and purchasing patterns.
Alberta witnessed a drastic 55.5% decline in American wholesale wine sales, while Quebec reported a remarkable 58% increase in sales of locally produced wines during the specified period.
This shift has presented a unique opportunity for Canadian wineries, with a notable 78% increase in wine sales across various retail channels, prompting expansions, increased employment, and enhanced offerings within the industry.
Carolyn Hurst, co-owner of Westcott Vineyards in Ontario’s Niagara Region, highlighted the positive impact of the ban on U.S. alcohol products, noting a doubling of wine sales within six months and a growing presence on restaurant menus.
Provincial retailers, like the Liquor Control Board of Ontario, capitalized on the situation to feature more local producers, introducing products from 30 craft wineries under the “Support Ontario” banner.
‘A huge uptake’ on products, winemaker says
Jeff Guignard, president and CEO of Wine Growers British Columbia, noted a 6-10% rise in wholesale wine volumes, with a growing trend of local tourism boosting vineyard visits across British Columbia.
The surge in Canadian wine sales, although positive, still represents a small fraction of the market, prompting industry experts to aim for a larger share and tackle longstanding barriers hindering growth within the sector.
The recent uptick in Canadian wine consumption reflects a growing pride in local products, as consumers explore and appreciate the diverse offerings created by domestic winemakers.
With efforts to reduce interprovincial
