B.C. grape grower left with unsold fruit as wineries allowed to import U.S. grapes
B.C. grape grower left with unsold fruit as wineries allowed to import U.S. grapes
www.cbc.ca /news/canada/british-columbia/b-c-wine-grape-growers-winery-2024-winter-kill-crop-loss-u-s-imports-9.6961112
In B.C.'s south Okanagan region, some wine grape growers are struggling to find buyers for their fruit, during a year many were hoping to make a solid profit after devastating crop loss in recent years.
After two years of severe winter damage, vineyards across the region produced strong yields this season.
But some farmers say a provincial program that allows wineries to import grapes from the United States is crowding the market and leaving them with grapes they can't sell.
Despite strong quality and sugar levels, Gill said his Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes should have been picked two weeks ago. He's concerned about making his loan repayments.