The two provinces have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will make it easier for Albertans to buy wine from B.C., while also ensuring that B.C. wineries pay their fair share of fees from liquor sales in Alberta. B.C. residents will also be able to directly order Alberta wine, supporting the growth of Alberta’s fledgling wine industry.
The MOU will establish a bilateral working group between the two provinces focused on facilitating access to B.C. wines electronically. Alberta’s fully privatized liquor industry means Albertans have one of the largest selections of liquor products in Canada, and this agreement with B.C. will give wine lovers in Alberta an even wider variety of wine options.
“I’m pleased that wine will once again flow to Albertans doors. I appreciate the collaboration between our governments, which is set to continue through our agreement and joint working group.”
“We’re proud to be able to provide more choices for consumers of B.C. wines, but we are also proud to be leaders in improved provincial trade. We expect this arrangement to be a springboard that helps expand the trade of liquor and other products between our provinces.”
The MOU follows discussions from Alberta and B.C. officials to resolve tax issues resulting from suppliers shipping directly to customers. During those discussions, all direct wine shipments were stopped. As those issues have now been addressed, Albertans are once again able to order wine directly to their doorstep from their preferred suppliers.
With more than 300 wineries currently operating in B.C., there is potential for more varieties of B.C. wine coming into the Alberta marketplace. This agreement will last for one year, followed by an evaluation and review period by both governments.
Quick facts
- With more than 1,600 stores and 36,000 liquor products, Alberta has one of the most open liquor markets in Canada.
- There are no barriers to listing a product in Alberta, as licensed liquor agents can pick and choose any products to bring into the province.
- As of June 2024, there are 327 licensed grape wine wineries in B.C.
- There are 16 wineries in Alberta producing 26 products.