Canada embraces Greek wines

The Greek wine industry has undergone a remarkable transformation in the past two decades. A new generation of Greek wine producers leads the way. They have studied abroad and brought back new techniques to Greece, following the most advanced methods in global winemaking. The new Greek wines are original, unique and intriguing, revealing ancient varieties. New wineries emerge in Greece every year.

The Greek wine industry mainly relies on local varieties, which reflect the rich Greek viticultural heritage. Greece is regarded as the Jurassic Park of wine, as new varieties that have been around for thousands of years are constantly discovered. Out of more than 300 native varieties, about 60 are commercially grown. But also well-known foreign varieties that are grown give special features thanks to the microclimate and the properties of the soil in our country.
Greek wine exports worldwide in 2023 surpassed 148 million CAD or 100 million euros. Canada is the third most important market for Greek wines, after Germany and the USA. Greek exports to Canada are expected to reach 11.5 million CAD in 2023, a 37.5% increase from 2022. Quebec is the main market, followed by Ontario, but Ontario is steadily narrowing the gap. While Ontario’s sales were only 1/5 of Quebec’s a few years ago, they are now 1/3 and the gap keeps shrinking.

We are celebrating the LCBO’s second Destination Greece store that opened in October in Mississauga at 5100 Erin Mills Pkwy inside the Erin Mills Town Centre.
The new LCBO store along with the LCBO store on the Danforth offer a wide range of Greek wines that can please the most discerning shoppers. 100 to 150 Greek wines are available in all seasons. Especially during Christmas and the holidays, both stores can meet the needs of both the Greek-Canadian and mainstream markets.
This relationship began with a visit of LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) buyers to Greece in September 2022, which was followed by an intense campaign to promote Greek wines in the Ontario and Quebec markets. With a digital promotion on the LCBO and Aeroplan website as well as actual outreach and tasting events, Canadian wine lovers came into greater contact and appreciation for the value and quality of modern Greek wines. Thanks to these actions, 60% more Greek wines were sold through the LCBO in the last year.

More promotional actions for Greek wines will follow in 2024 until the end of 2025 in both Toronto and Montreal. And of course, we will host a new LCBO mission to Greece in October, followed by a mission from the SAQ of Quebec.
Canadians have the opportunity to enjoy Greek wines either at their local restaurant with Greek delicacies or find them at an LCBO store and enjoy them at home! Greek wines are more than a drink. It is a part of the Greek culture, hospitality and tradition of our country. It is a way for the wine lover to connect with the history, the land and the people of Greece. It is a gift worth sharing with your loved ones. It is a way to experience the Greek philosophy of life.
Discover the new Greek wines and indulge in their magic!”

Dionysios Protopapas
Senior Trade Commissioner
Consulate General of Greece in Toronto
Mob. 437-231 4676 dprotopapas@mfa.gr