HALIFAX - U.S. wine sales to Canada have plummeted by 91 percent this year. This significant drop follows the removal of U.S. products from liquor store shelves across provinces and territories. The action was taken in response to tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. The California-based Wine Institute reported this decline, which is also reflected in an 85 percent decrease in sales of U.S. liquor and spirits. Sales fell from over $63 million in 2024 to just under $10 million in 2025, according to the Distilled Spirits Council.

The sharp decline in U.S. wine sales presents a potential opportunity for Canadian wineries. Jeff Guignard, president of Wine Growers British Columbia, noted that while the U.S. produces wine on a much larger scale, Canadian wine regions can increase their market share. He emphasized the importance of interprovincial collaboration to boost sales.

Guignard also mentioned that many wine regions are currently in discussions with provincial liquor stores. They aim to secure more shelf space for local products, which could help Canadian wineries capitalize on the gap left by U.S. imports.

Holland Marsh Wineries, located in Newmarket, Ontario, has already seen positive results. Narek Nersisyan, the winery's vice-president of sales and marketing, reported a 10 to 15 percent increase in visitors this summer. This uptick is attributed to more tourists and day trippers seeking local experiences near Toronto. Nersisyan noted that loyal customers are also purchasing more local wines, further supporting the winery's growth during this period.