As a Canadian and a Resident of the Western-most province in the country we have always struggled with our identity when it comes to what we drink. We are not the Rye Coke Press of Alberta, the Export Ale of Quebec, or even the Moosehead of the Maritimes. But just as our Grape Vines struggle to make that elusive connection with the soil that defines our terroir we are starting to enjoy an awakening of all categories of beverages from local micro distilleries to world class wines and a growing craft brew industry. Our consumers are waking up to the realization that our strength is our diversity. Young and old, male and female the demand for unique, local and premium is on the rise. I find myself having more and more conversations about specific products or styles of all types of beverage there is a hunger for knowledge that is both refreshing and challenging.
What does this all mean moving forward.
If you are in the business; challenge your customers bring in some new products, keep up on the trends, take the road less travelled and champion your local manufacturers it will pay off in the long run.
If you are a consumer; ask for local, try something new every time you go out, tell your visitors about the great things happening here in B.C. and who knows maybe 1 day this will be the province that everybody talks about when they think Beer ,Wine or Spirits.
If you are in Government: it is time to champion change, bring our laws in line with our new social conscience, take down the barriers to the success of our growing beverage industry, and lastly take away punitive taxation and don't just level the playing field but help put the best team on the field.
Here are just a couple of things to try, Join a growler club it is great for the enviroment and the beer is fresh. Seek out some 2011 white wines from the Okanagan it is a good vintage for whites, acids are low and fruit flavors abound. Try the McLoughlin Steele Whiskey it is the first time one has been on the market from the Okanagan.
Cheers.
