History of Canada Wine
1811
Retired German Corporal planted wild vines which were found at Credit River in Toronto. He made wine from them and sold it to his neighbors.
1866
Three farmers from Kentucky obtained lands on Pelee Island, hence starting the first commercial wine industry in Canada by planting 30 aces of native North American Catawba grapes there.
1890
41 commercial wineries are functioning in the country in 1890
1913
The Horticultural Research Centre of Ontario was established researching on vine varieties
1916
Prohibition started in Canada which lasted for 11 years. The effect of Prohibition was to control the sales of intoxication alcohols but it did not affect the wine makers as clever lobbyist made wine exempted from the act.
1942
The Canadian Association of Liquor Jurisdictions was set up to control the sale and distribution of alcohols in each state.
1946
French chemist, Adhemar F. de Chaunac a pioneer in Canada wines brought in French hybrid varieties from French.
1965
The French government sues Canada wine company Chateau-Gai for the use of the word ‘Champagne’ in its wine labels. The French won the suit.
1978
The selling of wine was allowed in grocery stores at Quebec Province. This made the buying of wine more readily available.
1988
Free Trade with the USA was formed which spurs trading in the wine industry. The Vinters Quality Alliance standard was also established.
1990s