BC Wine Month is back with people celebrating at home

Photo: Contributed

The B.C. Wine Institute is welcoming back BC Wine Month this April, with people celebrating from home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The B.C. wine industry is doing what it can to stay strong during these unprecedented times so Wines of British Columbia is encouraging people to buy local, all while practicing proper social distancing.

“Communities all around the province continue to rally together by supporting local businesses and choosing to buy B.C. products,” says minister of agriculture Lana Popham. “Many B.C. winemakers depend on sales within our province to keep their businesses running, and our support for them and all B.C. farmers and businesses during this pandemic will help the resiliency and future of food and beverage production in British Columbia.”

With 929 vineyards in B.C, the wine industry is working hard to protect more than 12,000 jobs that wineries support. More than 175 wineries have stepped up along with retailers and restaurants to make it easier for consumers to enjoy B.C. wines, through free shipping, delivery, virtual tastings, charitable donations and curb side pick-ups.

Since these promotions have come to life, the BC Wine Institute has launched a webpage, giving wine lovers a simple way to engage with their favourite local wineries from home. 

"It is more important than ever to support local,” says president and CEO of the BC Wine Institute Miles Prodan. “While tasting rooms are closed for visitation, wineries remain open for business and are taking necessary precautions to make B.C. wines accessible for British Columbians while ensuring the safety and well-being of their communities, staff, families and customers. We invite wine lovers to experience B.C. wineries virtually in honour of BC Wine Month.” 

Save-On-Foods is a key partner for BC Wine Month.

“By partnering with more than 175 B.C. wineries and producers, Save-On-Foods offers the world’s largest selection of B.C. VQA Wines in 21 Wines of British Columbia at Save-On-Foods stores,” says Save-On-Foods director Steve Moriarty. “We take immense pride in the sale and promotion of more than 1200 different wines produced right here in British Columbia. Our customers have grown to appreciate the distinct quality and unique freshness that comes from local wineries, and we continue to grow and support the industry.”

Save-On-Foods will feature in store signage and displays in support of BC Wine Month. BC Wine Month billboards will also be displayed throughout B.C. and Alberta during April.

To learn more about supporting BC Wine Month click here.