Canadian wine

Canadian wine is produced in various provinces, with Ontario and British Columbia leading in vineyard acreage. In 2015, the country produced an impressive 56.2 million liters of wine, with these two provinces playing significant roles. Canada is particularly renowned for its icewine, holding the distinction of being the world's leading producer.

The history of Canadian wine spans over 200 years. Early vintners faced challenges in grape cultivation, prompting them to concentrate on native species and hybrids. The wine industry also encountered hurdles such as the temperance movement and limited consumer interest in quality table wines until the 1960s. However, significant advancements in viticulture and winemaking technology have since allowed the industry to thrive.

In 1988, the Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA) was established to ensure high standards for Canadian wines. The 'Cellared in Canada' label, which permitted the use of imported grape must, attracted criticism and was eventually replaced with new designations in 2018. Despite being a notable wine producer, Canadian wines account for less than 50% of the domestic market share, with Quebec being the largest wine consumer by volume.

On the global stage, Canadian wines are exported to countries such as China, the United States, South Korea, the Netherlands, and Japan. Icewine remains a major export, with Ontario and British Columbia leading the charge. In 2015, Canada had 548 wineries covering 12,150 hectares, primarily located in Ontario and British Columbia. Quebec and Nova Scotia also boast notable wine industries, while provinces like Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan focus more on fruit wines and meaderies. Popular grape varieties in Canadian vineyards include Chardonnay, Riesling, Merlot, and Pinot Noir.