History and Wine Law

Question 1

When did Canada start go plant vitis vinifera vines on a commercial scale?

Answer 1

1970s

Question 2

What red hybrid varietal was the first to be widely planted in Canada?

Answer 2

De Chaunac

Question 3

Which winery almost single handedly create an international reputation for Canadian Ice Wine?

Answer 3

Inniskillin

Question 4

What hybrid grape is permitted for the production of ice wine?

Answer 4

Vidal

Question 5

What is the VQA? When was it introduced? Where?

Answer 5

Vintners Quality Alliance
1988
Launched in Ontario

Question 6

In which province are VQA standards voluntary?

Answer 6

British Columbia

Question 7

What are the VQA standards?

Answer 7

1. Must be made from 100% of grapes grown in the respective province (BC or Ontario)
2. If labeled with a more precise appellation, BC wines must contain a minimum 95% of grapes grown in that appellation, Ontario wines require 85% for appellations and 100% for sub-appellations.
3. Single vineyard wines must solely contain grapes grown in the stated vineyard
4. With the exception of sparkling wines all VQA wines must be labeled with with a vintage date and contain a minimum of 85% of grapes harvested in that year.
5. Varietal wines must contain a minimum 85% of the stated variety

Question 8

Is Chapitalization permitted by the VQA?

Answer 8

Yes, except for in ice wine

Question 9

How long must non-vintage traditional method wines in Canada be aged on the lees?
Vintage traditional method wines?

Answer 9

9 months
12 months

Question 10

Are hybrid grapes eligible for varietal labeling by the VQA?

Answer 10

Only if the provincial area is the only stated geographical designation, otherwise no