Kelowna, BC – As we continue to navigate these uncertain times surrounding COVID-19, BC wineries are doing what they can to ensure the community and industry remain strong, which is why the Wines of British Columbia welcome the return of BC Wine Month in April to encourage buying local while respecting physical distancing.
Once again, the BC government has proclaimed April as the official province-wide wine month, encouraging all British Columbians to enjoy 100 per cent BC wines from their homes.
“Communities all around the province continue to rally together by supporting local businesses and choosing to Buy BC products,” says Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture. “Many BC winemakers depend on sales within our province to keep their businesses running, and our support for them and all BC farmers and businesses during this pandemic will help the resiliency and future of food and beverage production in British Columbia.”
With 929 vineyards across the province, BC’s wine industry is doing what it can to protect the more than 12,000 jobs BC wineries support. More than 175 wineries, along with local retailers and restaurants, are stepping up to make it easier to enjoy BC wine by offering free shipping, delivery, virtual tastings, charitable donations and curbside pick up for British Columbians. The BC Wine Institute launched a dedicated webpage to highlight these promotions and provide a simple way for wine lovers to find BC wines and engage with their local wineries online.
"It is more important than ever to support local,” says Miles Prodan, President & CEO of the BC Wine Institute. “And while tasting rooms are closed for visitation, wineries remain open for business and are taking necessary precautions to make BC 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 BC wineries virtually in honour of BC Wine Month.”
A proud supporter of the local community, growers, suppliers and winemakers, Save-On-Foods is a key retail partner for BC Wine Month. April also marks the fifth anniversary of Wines of British Columbia at Save-On-Foods stores.
“By partnering with more than 175 BC wineries and producers, Save-On-Foods offers the world’s largest selection of BC VQA Wines in 21 Wines of British Columbia at Save-On-Foods stores,” says Steve Moriarty, Director, Save-On-Foods. “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 support BC Wine Month through in-store signage and displays, and BC Wine Month billboards will be displayed in various regions of BC and Alberta throughout the month of April.
Learn more about how you can support BC Wine Month throughout April and show local wineries, retailers and restaurants some love at WineBC.com.
