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BC wineries, craft breweries and distilleries are renowned for producing best-in-class, award winning liquor products. They do so while contributing to the provincial economy and providing employment in their communities.
According to a research study (PDF) published in 2017 , “Canada’s Wine Economy – Ripe, Robust, Remarkable” (the latest Canada-wide study available), in 2015 the BC wine and grape industry contributed $2.8 billion to the BC economy. This included $1.95 billion in provincial business revenue, $312 million in tax revenue, and $512 million in wages (see the Wines of British Columbia media release for details). BC craft breweries also make important contributions to the economy. In 2020, BC’s 204 breweries contributed over $319 million to the BC economy and employed approximately 4,500 people. BC distilleries employ hundreds more.
During the BCGEU Strike, BC Distilleries & Wineries Filled the Gap
During the BCGEU strike of August 2022, BC liquor distribution was disrupted. Provincial liquor stores put purchase caps on liquor products and a lack of distribution to private wine stores, restaurants, pubs, and lounges quickly emptied supplies. BC distilleries and wineries helped fill the supply gap to businesses and consumers.
Where to Find BC Wine, Spirits and Craft Beer
The following is a list of resources that will help you find some of the best wine, beer and spirits produced in BC.
- BC Ale Trail
https://bcaletrail.ca/
View a list of craft breweries in BC organized by region. On a map, view all breweries or places to find craft beer or use that region’s “Ale Trail” itinerary to help plan daily activities which include visits to local attractions, breweries, places to eat, and of course enjoy local craft beer. BC Ale Trail also has a handy app. - BC Craft Brewers Guild members list
https://bccraftbeer.com/our-breweries/
View a list of BC Craft Brewers Guild members with links to their websites. Some breweries offer online shopping or online ordering and delivery. Alternatively, you can view member breweries on a map of BC, Vancouver and Lower Mainland and Victoria. - Wines of British Columbia
https://winebc.com/
Wines of BC is the website of the Wine Growers of BC (WGBC). The website features information about exploring BC wine country, lists of WGBC wineries including links to winery website. Wines of BC also offers a free “Wines of BC Explorer” app for iPhone and Android “connecting you with the 9 unique regions, 380 wineries, and 7,800+ wines BC has to offer”. - BC Distilled
https://bcdistilled.ca/
BC Distilled is “BC’s artisan distillery festival”. On their website, you’ll find events, such as distillers dinners and whisky tastings. Whether or not there are any current or upcoming events featured, the website has an interactive map of distilleries in BC, and also a list of links to distillery websites organized by BC region.
Liquor Licensing & Consulting Services for BC Wineries, Breweries & Distillers
Over the years, Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors consultants have raised more than a glass or two of BC-produced liquor products. We provide liquor consulting services to BC wineries, distilleries and craft breweries. Our services set liquor businesses up for success while saving valuable time and money. We provide liquor license application services, liquor retail strategy and strategic planning.
