Langley’s Township 7 Vineyards & Winery is the first B.C. winery to offer consumers the ability to sample and purchase local wine at Farmers' Markets. From now until Thanksgiving, Township 7 will offer tastings and wine sales at the Langley Community Farmers' Market and White Rock Farmers’ Market.
Recent improvements to provincial legislation allowing local wine, beer and spirits at Farmers’ Markets took effect on June 21.
The updating was part of the 73 recommendations in the B.C. Liquor Policy review with the goal of creating new economic opportunities for local businesses and helping to complement the sales of B.C.-grown foods.
B.C. joins other provinces (Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia and Quebec) that allow local wine sales at Farmers’ Markets.
“We’re pleased to see the modernization and quick implementation of the new liquor laws. For a small business like us, an additional outlet for wine sales is really beneficial given how competitive the marketplace has become,” said Mike Raffan, Township 7 general manager.
“Having access directly to consumers at our neighbourhood market is a win-win for everyone,” said Raffan. “Kudos to White Rock for being at the forefront of supporting artisan wine producers. Hopefully by B.C. Day other Farmers’ Markets will follow their lead.”
With the ability to buy wine at a Farmers’ Market, those wanting to buy local can pick up everything they need to complete the dining experience, from veggies, fruit, meat, fish and dairy.
The White Rock Farmers’ Market is held at Miramar Plaza at 15154 Russell Ave. and runs every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. until October 12. In addition to wine, White Rock Beach Beer Co and Dragon Mist Distillery are sampling and selling their beverages at the Market.
Langley Farmers’ Market runs every Wednesday from 2 to 6:30 p.m. in the courtyard of Kwantlen Polytechnic University. The market is hoping to bring some other liquor vendors on in the future, said organizers.