by Giles Cadman
As a frequent visitor to Ontario I have been interested in their wine industry for over fifteen years. The ice wine can be superb, and some of the other varieties can be pleasant, especially when taking into account the harsh climate.
Today the Winery & Grower Alliance of Ontario (WGAO) announced its support for Premier Kathleen Wynne‘s new Wine and Grape Strategy for the industry. The decision by the Government of Ontario today to invest $15 million per year - $75 million over five years – to support Ontario wine is a significant investment for a key industry in the province.
“The Government of Ontario is a key partner in growing Ontario’s wine industry,” said Jim Clark, Chair of WGAO and President of Colio Estate Wines. “Today’s announcement demonstrates that Premier Wynne and her government are committed to helping grow our industry and creating jobs here in Ontario.”
The job creation potential for the wine industry is the reason for the subsidisation of the industry.
“Ontario’s VQA and blended wines are a key source of manufacturing, agriculture and tourism jobs in the province, and we are pleased the government has taken the time to truly understand the issues and opportunities that we face,” said Patrick Gedge, President & CEO, WGAO. “We look forward to working with government and industry partners to determine how these funds can best be used to grow the industry, maximize our contribution to the Ontario economy and create jobs in the province.”
