Canadian grape and wine industry on a ‘good path right now’
By Luke Edwards
Now that they’ve got a taste for it, Niagara wine will continue to be a major player in Ontario and Canada even if the U.S. booze bans end, Grape Growers of Ontario chair Kevin Watson said.
With trade tensions continuing to flare in August, Watson said the past year and a half has been a great opportunity to showcase the high quality products local wineries produce. And with the American trade “shenanigans” continuing, Watson believes Canadians will continue to look to their compatriots in the agricultural sector to stock their wine cellars, fridges and pantries.
“I believe we will hold onto a large portion (of the market),” Watson said.
“We’re still proud Canadians.”
Canadian trade negotiators spent a lot of time in August talking with their American counterparts as potential new tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump loomed. Much of the discussion included having provinces remove bans on American wine and spirits. However, the proposed deal fell apart at the last minute, leaving the ban in place for the time being.
Watson said the bans helped open the eyes of wine drinkers, and while some may eventually go back to their old American favourites, he expects many will stay loyal to Canadian wines thanks to a combination of patriotism and discovering just how good local wines are.
However, while moves such as the booze ban have been a boon to the grape and wine sector, Watson acknowledged the balancing act. Farmers understand other industries haven’t been so lucky with the trade war.
“We have to be aware of our fellow business owners,” he said.
Still, Watson said farmers of all stripes are grateful to Canadian consumers who have supported local products in the past year and a half.
“Growers are very thankful for that,” he said, encouraging Canadians to “keep doing what you’ve been doing.”
It might seem like a small thing to buy an Ontario bottle of wine or some Canadian vegetables, but Watson said every little bit makes a tangible difference.
“We’re very grateful to the community for their support of Canadian produce,” he said.
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