Ontario VQA wine sales at LCBO surged 67% in 2024 due to "Buy Canadian" momentum amid U.S. trade tensions.

Sales of Ontario VQA wines at the LCBO rose 67% year-over-year in 2024, driven by a surge in "Buy Canadian" sentiment amid U.S. trade tensions and tariffs on Canadian goods. The LCBO reported a 23% increase in overall Ontario-made product sales, with Ontario VQA red wines up 80% and craft beer and spirits growing by 8.4% and 4.5% respectively. This follows Ontario’s 2024 decision to remove most U.S. alcohol from LCBO shelves, except for products from U.S. territories, and the addition of 130 new Ontario VQA wines to the Vintages lineup. Promotions like the Eh List, tastings, and recommendations helped boost domestic demand, which also rose in other provinces, including 55% growth for B.C. wines and 30% for Nova Scotia wine.