Ontario Introduces Regulatory, Tax Changes To Boost Local Grape Content Of Wines

Toronto, Ontario (AHN) - To boost the local grape content of wines made in Ontario, the provincial government issued on Tuesday new regulatory and tax change regulations.

Wines labeled as Cellared in Canada would soon require over 30 percent local grape content for it to be permitted to be sold in Ontario under that label. Early next year, Ontario would also reduce the tax cuts on VQA wines which are 100 percent made of Ontario grapes and manufactured by over 108 wineries across the province, concentrated on the Greenbelt area.

The move is expected to boost further sales in Ontario of VQA wines through the Liquor Control Board of Ontario. VAQ wine sales have been growing at a faster pace in the province compared to blended and imported wines sold in Ontario.

Ontario Minister of Consumer Services Ted McMeekin said in a statement, "VQA wines are recognized around the world for their quality and taste. We're building on this success so that our wine and grape industry continues to succeed in the years ahead."

The changes were applauded by the Wine Council of Ontario. Council chair Ed Madronich said the new rules help provide wine drinkers' search for authenticity when purchasing liquor. He added the measures indicate Toronto's policy direction that VQA is the future for Ontarians.