Canadian Wine Is World-Class, So Why Aren’t We Supporting It?
For decades, Canada’s wine industry has quietly grown into one of the most exciting and high-quality wine-producing regions in the world. From the lush vineyards of British Columbia's Okanagan Valley to the rolling hills of Niagara and the crisp coasts of Nova Scotia, Canadian winemakers are passionate about their craft. They mix tradition with new ideas to make wines that can compete with, or even exceed, some of the world's top labels.
Yet today, our industry faces a challenge that extends far beyond our wineries. It affects our national pride, economy, and sovereignty in the global market. With the U.S. adding tariffs on Canadian goods, it is more critical than ever for Canadians to step up and support our own.
This is not just about wine. This is about the future of Canadian craftsmanship, industry, and identity.
The Rise of Canadian Wine
Not long ago, Canadian wine was often overlooked on the global stage. The industry was young, the knowledge was in the process of development, and the terroirs remained poorly understood. But over the last 20 years, a revolution has taken place.
Winemakers across the country have refined their techniques, embraced sustainable practices, and mastered the unique characteristics of our cool-climate regions. Today, Canada produces world-class wines that win international awards, that sommeliers seek, and ones that tell the story of who we are as a nation.
Tony Aspler, one of Canada’s most respected wine experts, puts it simply:
"Canadian winemaking has reached a point where it no longer needs to prove itself. Our wines are not ‘good for Canadian wines’—they are simply great wines. Period."
Yet, despite this, many Canadians continue to reach for foreign bottles, often without realizing that the best wines—the ones crafted with care, precision, and passion—are produced right here at home.
Why This Matters Now More Than Ever
This is a defining moment for Canada’s wine industry—not for winemakers, but for all Canadians. At a time when economic pressures, corporate monopolies, and outdated policies continue to make it harder for small and independent wineries to thrive, we must come together as a nation to support our own.
The reality is that Canada imports more wine than it exports. We flood our market with foreign bottles while our own world-class wines fight for recognition in their own backyard. Why should we continue to pour our money into international corporations when we have an industry right here that reflects our craftsmanship, our land, and our identity.
By choosing Canadian wines, we are doing more than making a purchase—we are making a statement. We are investing in our economy, creating jobs, and ensuring that Canada’s rich winemaking heritage continues to grow. Standing up for our own isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the Canadian way.
Canadian Wine is Not a Compromise
Some may ask, “But is Canadian wine really as good as French, Italian, or Californian wines?”
The answer is unequivocally yes.
Canadian wines offer something that no other country can replicate—a true sense of place. Our cool-climate wines have a freshness, a balance, and an elegance that set them apart. Whether it’s a well-structured Pinot Noir from the Niagara Peninsula, a bold Syrah from British Columbia, or a crisp and mineral-driven Chardonnay from Prince Edward County, Canadian wines are not a second choice; they represent a world-class option.
And yet, if we fail to support our own and continue to let imported wines dominate our shelves and our tables, we risk stifling the growth of an industry that has fought tirelessly to earn its place in the world.
The choice is in our hands. Every bottle of Canadian wine we uncork is a vote of confidence in our winemakers, our economy, and our national identity. Supporting Canadian wine isn’t a burden; it’s a responsibility we should take pride in.
If you’re unsure where to start, WineClub.ca is making it easier than ever to discover and enjoy the best wineries from across Canada—delivered directly to your door. Explore new regions, support local winemakers, and be part of a movement that puts Canada first.
Together, we can raise our glasses to Canada.
