WATCH: A deal was struck between premiers at the Council of the Federation meeting that should make wine lovers raise a glass. Shirlee Engel explains.
Wine and spirits will soon flow freely between B.C. and Saskatchewan after the provinces signed a new agreement on locally produced liquor.
The agreement will lift trade barriers on alcohol between the two provinces, and once implemented, will allow consumers to order B.C. or Saskatchewan wines and craft spirits directly from producers, and have them delivered to their doorstep.
B.C. has a booming wine industry in the Okanagan, and Saskatchewan is home to several notable distilleries.
Previously, consumers were restricted to wines or spirits that were available for sale through Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority stores in Saskatchewan, and BC Liquor Distribution Branch and private liquor stores in B.C.
This agreement will allow consumers to access a greater selection of wines and craft spirits, and open up new markets for wineries and distilleries.
“With more than 275 B.C. wineries and a growing selection of craft distillers to choose from, I am excited that Saskatchewan residents will soon be able to place their order and raise their glass to enjoy more of what our province has to offer,” said B.C. Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick.
B.C. and Saskatchewan have also agreed to discuss the liberalization of craft beer trade between the two provinces. No word on exactly when the changes between B.C. and Saskatchewan will take effect.
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