Canada: Wineries in British Columbia face a dire situation as the Alberta trade dispute remains sour

Published 2024년 5월 3일

Tridge summary

A dispute between British Columbia (B.C.) and Alberta has led to Alberta's liquor agency refusing to stock B.C. wines, as B.C. wineries refuse to cease direct sales to consumers in Alberta. This dispute, part of a larger issue including a cold snap destroying grape stocks and climatic challenges, has resulted in the loss of 97-99% of the 2024 vintage. The provincial government has allocated $70 million for grape and fruit growers to replant and established a task force to enhance the visiting experience at wineries. However, the industry fears B.C. wines will become less visible due to retailers and restaurants replacing them with cheaper wines from other regions. Both provinces are still in discussions to resolve the issue.

Disclaimer:The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.

Original content

B.C.’s wine dispute with Alberta remains corked up as the provincial wine industry faces what one industry leader calls a “perfect storm.” The dispute dates back to late January 2024 when Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis told B.C. wineries that it won’t stock their products until they immediately agree to cease direct-to-consumer sales. Since then, nothing has changed, Miles Prodan, president and CEO of Wine Growers British Columbia in an interview with Black Press Media last month. “We are at a stand-still,” he said. “The embargo against B.C. wine continues to remain in place, unless wineries have agreed…to stop shipping directly to Alberta customers,” he said. “Wines are physically turned back,” he added. Black Press Media asked the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General for an update and received the same response. “We have told Alberta the steps they have taken hinders the ability of Albertans to enjoy BC’s wine,” Farnworth said in a statement. “When I spoke to ...

Source: Thenorthernview