HAMMONDSPORT, NY — The Finger Lakes wine industry is bracing for potential effects from an emerging trade conflict between the United States and Canada. With winemaking being a significant part of the region’s economy, local vintners are reevaluating their sales strategies heading into the 2025 season.

"We’re all just looking at this with our fingers crossed and saying we’ll see what happens," expressed Jordan Harris, the Winemaker and COO at Heron Hill Winery in Hammondsport. He noted the situation is rapidly evolving, making it hard to predict future impacts.

In response to U.S. tariffs on various Canadian imports, Canadian provinces, particularly Ontario and Quebec, have removed American-made alcoholic beverages from their shelves. This shift is problematic for wineries like Heron Hill, which had previously counted on sales across the border. "By removing American wines from the shelves, it effectively creates more space for Canadian products," Harris pointed out, adding that he doubts their wines will regain shelf space due to consumer habits potentially shifting to local alternatives.

Currently, Heron Hill Winery has not yet felt the effects as the peak season has not commenced. However, Harris anticipates challenges with the arrival of summer, particularly due to the ban on American alcohol in Canada and a likely decrease in Canadian tourism. "A significant portion of our business relies on travelers from Canada who visit the Finger Lakes for wine tours," he stated.

Despite signing a deal with a Canadian distributor to increase their market presence in Canada earlier this year, the winery was unable to ship wine across the border before the American products were banned.

Looking ahead, Harris sees potential solutions to mitigate the impact, including targeting areas like Buffalo to expand their customer base. He believes that many Buffalo residents, who used to travel to Canada for wine tasting, may consider exploring Finger Lakes wines instead.