In a significant development, Ontario wine sales have skyrocketed more than 60% since the LCBO removed U.S. alcohol products from its shelves in March, following a directive from the provincial government in response to American trade tariffs. The move has sparked a notable shift in consumer behavior.
- Ontarians are increasingly committed to buying local and Canadian products.
- The LCBO’s decision has led to a notable increase in VQA wine sales, with reds up 71% and whites up 67%.
- Overall wine sales dropped by 13% between March and early June.
In a statement, the LCBO said:“Ontarians are increasingly committed to buying local and Canadian products.”
The LCBO was directed to remove U.S.-made spirits, wine, cider, beer, ready-to-drink cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks as part of Ontario’s response to tariffs. Local producers have since filled the gap.
| VQA Wine Category | % Increase |
|---|---|
| Reds | 71% |
| Whites | 67% |
| Sparkling Wines | 28% |
“This is an opportunity,” said Del Rollo, board member of Wine Growers Ontario. “Canadians have never been more passionate about buying local.”
At Kin Vineyards in Carp, sales have risen about 25% since March. Retail manager Liam Mastersmith said the trade shift is bringing in customers from beyond the Ottawa Valley.
- The Valley has always supported local, but now we’re seeing people from further away discovering our wines.
- Customers are now paying closer attention to labels, seeking out Ontario and Canadian wines.
William Hordyk, a customer originally from Niagara wine country, said he’s now paying closer attention to labels. “I’m definitely being more conscious about buying Ontario and Canadian wine,” he said.
Ontario wines are also seeing gains in restaurants. Ottawa restaurateur Stephen Beckta removed all American wines from his menus earlier this year and said Ontario wine sales have climbed roughly 30% since.
While he hopes the trade dispute is resolved, Beckta said guests have embraced the shift. “They’ve been very receptive to trying new Ontario wines.”
Beyond VQA, the LCBO reports other Ontario-made categories, including international-domestic blends, have seen modest increases, while overall Canadian wine sales are up about 18%.
Rewritten highlights:
Increased demand for VQA wines
Customers are paying closer attention to labels
Ontario wines seeing gains in restaurants
Overall Canadian wine sales up 18%
In conclusion:
Ontario wine sales have soared more than 60% since the LCBO removed U.S. alcohol products from its shelves in March, following a directive from the provincial government in response to American trade tariffs.
As consumers become more conscious of buying local and Canadian products, Ontario wines are experiencing a significant surge in demand.
With local producers filling the gap left by the removal of U.S.
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