Well, it’s been quite the summer and here in BC most of us are really looking forward to the fall. Cooler temperatures and rain are what’s needed now. The wildfires have impacted so many lives in so many ways, it’s almost too much to fathom.
One thing that stands out through all of this, is community. They say it takes a village, and in BC communities have come forward to help in any way they can. Some people lost their lives, others lost their homes, and others lost their businesses. People from communities near to and far from affected areas are giving and doing what they can to help rebuild and bring life back to some sense of normalcy. A huge task considering the swath of destruction caused by these fires.
Tourism is one of BC’s largest employers, and wineries are part of that draw. With the provincial state of emergency, visitors were asked to leave to provide space for displaced people to shelter. Unfortunately, that meant hundreds of businesses had their season cut short.
Wineries across BC were already in a precarious position. Last winter’s freezing temperatures killed an estimated 39 to 56 percent of all grape vines meaning less grapes, less wine production and less income.
You may be surprised to learn that the majority of the wineries in BC are small operations. Of the approximately 450 BC wineries, about 10 percent are classified as commercial. That leaves 400 wineries that rely heavily on regional and national sales.
You can help by going to your favourite winery and grabbing a couple of bottles of your favourite vino. If you can’t get there, go online and see if they offer delivery. Wine clubs are a great way to get a case or two of what you want at a discounted price. You also get first dibs on new releases and updates on what’s being offered in the future.
Many wineries sell more than wine. They have art, clothing, wine paraphernalia, preserves, sauces, and so much more. Come and visit them and see just how much they have to offer. If you can’t visit, you can go online and pick out exactly what you want for now and for the winter ahead. Heck, you can even get some early holiday shopping done!
The bottom line is that the people of BC will, in some way, shape or form, survive and thrive. We are BC strong.
Stay safe everyone and have a fabulous fall!