Local wineries/Vernon Matters Staff

By Vernon Matters Staff

Ministry response

Ministry responds to B.C. winery concerns over Olympic Average policy

Oct 22, 2025 | 11:49 AM

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food says it is working to support B.C. wineries through both climate challenges and distribution disruptions caused by the ongoing liquor warehouse labour dispute. The ministry highlights programs and support measures aimed at helping growers recover from recent crop losses and continue producing local wine.

Minister Lana Popham addressed concerns raised by wineries over the Olympic Average policy, which is designed to ensure the government remains revenue-neutral when wineries must replace lost grapes with imported fruit due to weather events. Some small and mid-sized wineries say the policy is being applied too broadly, affecting 100 per cent B.C.-grown wines and limiting their ability to supply restaurants and stores during a critical distribution period.

“We’re working to support our wine industry for the long-term in the wake of a changing climate, and more immediately, through the disruptions to product and revenue streams that restaurants and wineries have experienced during the labour dispute,” Popham said. “I am always interested in hearing from growers and wineries on how we can help their diverse business models grow.”

Wineries stress they are not seeking subsidies, only a fair, revenue-neutral application of the policy so they can continue operating and supplying consumers.

“We’re ready and able to keep B.C. restaurants, retailers, and consumers supplied during this disruption,” said Ron Kubek, owner of Lightning Rock Winery. “But the way the Olympic Average policy is currently being applied makes it feel like we are being punished instead of supported.”

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The ministry says it will continue discussions with B.C. growers to ensure policies and programs work for the industry, helping wineries succeed, protecting jobs, and keeping local agriculture and communities strong.

Officials say ongoing dialogue with producers is critical to making sure programs are practical, effective, and responsive to the realities of climate impacts and market disruptions.