Agreement To Reopen Direct-To-Consumer B.C. Wine Sales To Alberta

A new agreement between British Columbia and Alberta means B.C. wineries can again ship their products directly to Alberta consumers.

“B.C. wines are world-class and should be enjoyed across Canada and around the world,” said B.C. Premier David Eby.

“Today's agreement ends the temporary ban on direct sales to customers in Alberta, and that's a win for B.C.’s grape growers and wineries, as well as a win for Albertans who have excellent taste in wine.”

BC wineries were told in January to stop selling direct to customers or their product would come off Alberta store shelves, accusing them of tax avoidance, which the industry soundly rejected.

The two provinces have now signed a memorandum of understanding, which will provide a path forward for B.C. wineries to sell directly to customers in Alberta.

There are about 350 grape wineries in B.C., generating approximately $3.75 billion annually, while employing more than 14,000 full-time workers.

To see the full release, visit Government of British Columbia.