Alberta’s ban on B.C. wine sales could have “serious repercussions” on industry: B.C. MLA

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“These are challenging times for wineries, and our government will continue to support and stand up for grape growers, winemakers and the British Columbia wine industry,” Russell stated.

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“We’re supporting growers with the climate-related challenges they’re facing. For example, our government has taken action to provide financial assistance for income loss due to crop failure. Last year, approximately $27 million in production insurance claims were provided to growers who lost crops due to last winter’s freeze.”

Russell added actions have been taken to support the sector, such as granting exemption to minimum wine-production levels so producers could renew licenses, and was meeting with grape growers and wine producers to understand the impact these issues have had on individuals, businesses and the economy .

“B.C.’s wine sector bolsters tourism, provides employment opportunities and has economic benefits for people who live in British Columbia,” Russell said.

As for why its banned the sales, Alberta said there is evidence that B.C.’s wine industry is avoiding paying taxes and concerns about sales to minors.

Speaking to media at a health care announcement in Vernon Friday, Feb. 2, Premier David Eby stated the impact of the past few years to B.C.’s grape growers was “devastating” and that it was “really hard to understand why Alberta would choose this moment” to ban the sales of B.C. wine.

“I know my colleague, Minister Mike Farnworth, has reached out to his counterpart in Alberta to discuss this, he’s our minister responsible for liquor, to underline the importance of the Alberta market for B.C. wine growers to make sure that Alberta understands the impact of the decisions that they’re making,” Eby stated.

“They had a good conversation and I hope they will be able to reach a resolution on this.”

Eby added the province has committed to supporting the entire agricultural sector, including grape growers and fruit growers, to address the impacts of extreme weather events, saying “we’re going to continue to find ways to support those farmers because they support us with the food they produce.”