National Wine Day

National Wine Day History

National Wine Day is a celebration dedicated to cherishing the rich history and cultural significance of wine. This day provides an opportunity for Canadians to raise a glass with friends and family while exploring and appreciating the various wine offerings from not only Canada, but also around the world. This day is an invitation to sample diverse wine varieties, learn about new vineyards and support local wineries, particularly as the Canadian wine industry continues to gain global recognition for its quality and innovation.

Though the official origins of National Wine Day remain largely unknown, the tradition of winemaking itself dates back thousands of years. For Canadians, wine production began in the 1800s, predominantly in Ontario and British Columbia. Today, the country boasts over 700 wineries and has solidified its place on the world stage with award-winning wines, such as the renowned Canadian Icewine, which enjoy international acclaim. National Wine Day also provides an opportunity to explore Canadian vineyards, discover indigenous grape varieties and celebrate the unique terroir found in our own backyard.

In Canada, National Wine Day is observed each year on May 25th. This day serves as a reminder to embrace the joy of uncorking a bottle of wine and build lifelong connections with wine lovers around the nation.

Top 8 Facts for 2026 National Wine Day in Canada

• Canada is recognized as the undisputed global leader in the production of icewine, a luxury dessert wine made from grapes naturally frozen on the vine that must be harvested at temperatures of –8°C or lower.
• Buying local for this observance provides a significantly higher boost to the domestic economy, as every bottle of wine made in Canada contributes approximately $31 to the country compared to only 65 cents for an imported bottle.
• Consumers often look for the Vintners Quality Alliance or VQA seal on bottles, which serves as a regulatory guarantee that the wine is made from 100% locally grown grapes in specific regions like the Niagara Peninsula or the Okanagan Valley.
• Although white varieties like Chardonnay and Riesling are world-renowned, red wine remains the most popular choice among Canadians, accounting for nearly 60% of all wine consumed across the country.
• The month of May coincides with the 30 Days of VQA campaign, a major promotional theme that encourages Canadians to discover local terroir and support homegrown vineyards at the start of the growing season.
• High-profile Canadian figures have brought mainstream attention to the industry through ventures such as the Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery and Dan Aykroyd's involvement with the Diamond Estates Royal DeMaria labels.
• There is a growing movement toward environmental responsibility within the industry, with many vineyards now operating under the Sustainable Winemaking Ontario certification or similar programs in British Columbia to address the impacts of climate change on grape yields.
• While Ontario and British Columbia produce 98% of the country's premium wine, other provinces like Nova Scotia are gaining international attention for their unique sparkling wines and crisp whites grown in acidic coastal soils.

In the News and Trending in Canada for National Wine Day

Top things to do in Canada for National Wine Day

• National Wine day is an excellent opportunity to plan a trip to a vineyard to do some wine tasting! Wine tasting is a very sophisticated way to try all of the various kinds of wine that a vineyard has to offer.
• Visit your local wine store and purchase your favorite wine. They may be offering specials or deals to celebrate the day.
• Check out a documentary about thw wine industry in Canada. Here are our top picks:
  1. Wine Confidential - This documentary series delves into the Canadian wine industry, with a specific focus on the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia. It uncovers the stories of the people behind the production of quality wine and the challenges they face.
  2. CBC's The Nature of Things: The Wine Doctor - David Suzuki travels to Canada's Niagara wine region, where he explores how scientists use cutting-edge technology to make better wine.
  3. Valley of Wine - A documentary that showcases the Okanagan Valley, the heart of British Columbia's wine country, and the winemakers who are putting it on the map.
• Celebrate National Wine Day by making a wine-infused dish. Here are our suggestions: Coq au Vin (chicken cooked in red wine), Beef Bourguignon (beef stew in red wine sauce), and Risotto al Barolo (risotto cooked in Barolo wine).