Stop Alberta’s New Wine Tax: Protecting BC Wineries and Consumers

British Columbia’s wine industry is facing a new challenge — and this time, it’s coming from across the Rockies. Alberta has introduced a new value-based tax on wine, adding up to 15% on top of its existing $4.11 per litre flat fee. This progressive ad valorem tax targets higher-value wines and will significantly increase the price of BC wines for Albertan consumers.

📊 What’s Changing

Flat Fee: $4.11 per litre — remains in place.

• New Tiered Tax:

- 5% on the portion of price between $15–$20/L

- 10% on the portion between $20–$25/L

- 15% on the portion over $25/L

For a premium BC sparkling wine, this can add several dollars to the retail price, making wines that are already shipped across provincial borders significantly more expensive for Albertans.

🍇 Impact on BC Wineries

BC producers warn this policy will:

• Make their wines less competitive in Alberta stores.

• Shrink sales volumes to one of their most important neighbouring markets.

• Disadvantage small and family-run wineries, many of whom rely on Alberta for crucial off-site sales.

  
  

The Ripple Effect on Local Economies

The impact of this tax extends beyond just the wineries. Local economies in British Columbia depend on the success of these businesses. When sales drop, it affects jobs, tourism, and the overall economic health of the region.

💸 Impact on Albertan Consumers

Albertans are the ones footing the bill.

• Everyday wine drinkers will see higher shelf prices.

• Higher-end wines will be hit hardest — just as consumer interest in premium BC wines has been growing.

• Wine lovers will have fewer affordable options to support Canadian producers.

  
  

A Shift in Consumer Behavior

As prices rise, many consumers may turn to cheaper alternatives or even out-of-province wines. This shift could diminish the appreciation for local products and hurt the reputation of Canadian wines in the long run.

🏛 Interprovincial Trade Concerns

Critics argue this tax undermines Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s stated commitment to interprovincial free trade. Instead of making it easier for Canadian products to move across provincial borders, it erects a financial barrier that hurts consumers and producers alike.

The Importance of Free Trade

Free trade between provinces is essential for fostering a competitive market. It allows consumers to access a wider variety of products at fair prices. This new tax goes against the spirit of collaboration and mutual support that should define Canadian trade.

✍️ Why We’re Launching a Petition

This isn’t just a policy tweak. It’s a trade barrier between provinces, and it hurts two groups:

1. BC wineries, who lose competitiveness and sales.

2. Albertan consumers, who face higher prices for products they want to support.

   
   

We’re calling on Albertans, British Columbians, and supporters of Canadian wine everywhere to speak up.

👉 Tell the Alberta Government: Scrap this new tax structure. Support interprovincial trade. Support Canadian wine.

🚨 Sign the Petition

Join us in sending a strong, united message before April 1, 2025.

✍️Sign Petition Here

Together, we can advocate for a fairer, smarter approach that supports consumers and Canadian producers — not punishes them.

🥂 A Toast to Community

At Bubbles Don’t Count, we believe wine is about more than what’s in your glass — it’s about connection, community, and celebration.

This petition is our way of standing together to protect what matters: supporting local producers and ensuring that wine lovers in Alberta can keep raising a glass of BC’s finest.

Let’s make sure BC wine continues to flow across the Rockies. 🍾

The Future of BC Wine

As we look ahead, it’s crucial to understand the long-term implications of this tax. The future of BC wine is at stake. If we do not act now, we risk losing not only a vital market but also the rich diversity of wines that BC has to offer.

Building Awareness

Raising awareness about this issue is essential. The more people know about the implications of the tax, the more likely they are to support the cause. Sharing information through social media, community events, and local wine tastings can help spread the word.

Engaging the Community

Engaging with the community is vital. We encourage everyone to participate in discussions about the impact of this tax. Attend local events, join wine clubs, and connect with others who share a passion for supporting Canadian wines.

Conclusion: Stand Together

In conclusion, the new wine tax in Alberta poses a significant threat to BC wineries and consumers alike. By standing together and advocating for change, we can ensure that the vibrant wine culture in British Columbia continues to thrive.

Let’s raise our glasses to a future where BC wines remain accessible and celebrated across Canada!