Posted September 21, 2025 | Lightning Rock Winery, Summerland, BC
This week we had the honour of welcoming BC Agriculture and Food Minister Lana Popham and her Chief of Staff, Samuel Godfrey, to Lightning Rock Winery. Their visit came right in the middle of harvest — one of the busiest times of year — but it was a moment we won’t forget.
The Minister walked through our replanted vineyards, saw firsthand the work that goes into recovery after a devastating 2024 crop loss, and even helped us pick grapes to start the cuvée for our Pinot Noir.
Most importantly, she listened. We spoke at length about the Olympic Average markup formula, how it currently punishes small wineries for trying to survive, and how it can be fixed at no cost to government. We also discussed how the Replant Program could be redesigned to better support family-run wineries, and how to give consumers across the province more access to BC-made wines and beverages.
What stood out was how engaged Minister Popham was. She asked thoughtful questions, understood the issues deeply, and showed us she truly cares about BC farmers. We left the conversation feeling heard — and hopeful.
Now the challenge is clear: ensuring that Cabinet, and especially the Treasury Board, understands the urgency of these issues. With the Minister’s leadership, we believe common-sense solutions are possible.
At Lightning Rock, we remain committed to making honest, transparent wines that showcase the best of BC. We thank Minister Popham and Samuel Godfrey for their visit and their commitment to the people who grow and make wine in this province.
Posted September 1, 2025 | Lightning Rock Winery, Summerland, BC
Big news to share, Lightning Rock wines are officially on their way to Ontario! For years, we’ve been dreaming of making it easier for our friends across the country to experience the energy, freshness, and passion of the Okanagan Valley in their glasses at home. Now, it’s finally happening.
This isn’t just about shipping, it’s about fairness and opening borders within our own country. Ontario wineries have long been able to send their bottles to BC wine lovers, and we believe it’s only right to raise a glass back.
Starting today, Ontarians can order Lightning Rock wines directly to their door, with HST included just as if you were buying from a local producer. Canadian wine deserves to be shared freely across Canada, without borders in the way.
The timing could not be better. This summer, Lightning Rock was named one of Canada’s Top 25 Wineries and recognized as the #11 Small Winery in the country at the 2025 WineAlign National Wine Awards of Canada. We also brought home Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals. This recognition confirms what we have always believed. Our small Okanagan winery belongs among Canada’s best, and our wines should be enjoyed in every province.
So, Ontario friends, whether you’re popping a bottle of our 2022 Elysia Blanc de Noirs (all elegance and fine bubbles), sipping the vibrant 2023 Pinot Noir Rosé on a patio, or pouring a chilled glass of 2024 Albariño with oysters, we can’t wait to share our wines with you. Because wine is better when it’s shared, and starting today, we can finally share ours with you.
We’ve put together a curated pack of our award-winning wines below so you can experience a little slice of the Okanagan in Ontario. If you’d like some guidance on your order, our team is always happy to chat by phone or email and help you choose a mix you’ll love to share.
Here’s to fair trade, Canadian wine, and raising a glass together, from Summerland to Toronto, Ottawa, Niagara, and everywhere in between. Cheers, Ontario! 🥂
Award Winning Wine Set
Now ready to ship to an Ontario destination.
Posted August 1, 2025 | Lightning Rock Winery, Summerland, BC
Big news for Lightning Rock Winery! The final results of the 2025 WineAlign National Wine Awards of Canada were announced today, and we’re thrilled to share that Lightning Rock has been named one of the Top 25 Wineries in the country.
This recognition feels especially meaningful because it celebrates more than what’s in the bottle; it honours our entire approach. Farming organically in challenging conditions, making low-intervention wines that reflect our land, and staying true to a style that’s vibrant, expressive, and honest. We may be small, but we are most definitely mighty and very proud today.
Five Wines. Five Medals.
We’re proud to share that five Lightning Rock wines received national medals:
From our vineyard crew to our cellar team to everyone who’s visited, tasted, ordered, or told a friend, we’re here because of you. Your support allows us to keep doing what we love, and these awards feel like a shared celebration.
It’s not just about awards (though we’re absolutely raising a glass to these!). It’s about knowing that the way we work, the intention, the patience, the people-first energy, matters.
If you haven’t tasted these wines yet, now’s the time! Our Award-Winning Four-Pack is available for a limited time and includes four of the five medalists (sorry, Riesling lovers, but check out our 2024 vintage which is now available).
Or, better yet, come visit us in person. The view stuns, the wines shine, and our team? We’ll make you feel like part of the family. Tastings are available daily from 11 am – 6 pm.
The Honourable Doug Ford
Premier of Ontario
Legislative Building
Queen’s Park
Toronto, ON M7A 1A1
April 3, 2025
Dear Premier Ford,
I appreciated your remarks today on CNBC:
“We’d be willing to take those off tomorrow if he (Trump) took all the tariffs off. We are not the problem.”
Your commitment to removing all tariffs in the name of free trade is a strong, welcome message. I couldn’t agree more — Canada shouldn’t be the problem when it comes to trade barriers. But if we truly want to lead by example, shouldn’t we start by eliminating the barriers we impose on each other within our own country?
As the owner of a BC winery, I see firsthand how damaging our internal trade policies are. Wine made in British Columbia and shipped to Ontario is treated no differently than wine from California or France — subject to markups of 70% or more, LCBO import charges, and other “tariff-like” levies. We are Canadian producers, but when our wine crosses a provincial border, it’s treated as if it crossed an ocean.
Premier, if you’re prepared to remove tariffs on U.S. goods “tomorrow,” would you be willing to do the same for wine from British Columbia, if BC agrees to do the same for Ontario wine?
You’ve already demonstrated leadership in modernizing alcohol sales and supporting local producers:
These are bold, pro-business, pro-consumer reforms. They’ve helped local producers and expanded choice. But now I ask: why not bring that same energy to making Canada the freest market for Canadian-made wine?
Importantly, permitting BC wines into Ontario would not result in significant revenue loss to the Ontario government. Most BC wines are produced in small lots and at relatively higher price points. They are not mass-produced products suited for LCBO shelf space. Allowing Ontario consumers to purchase BC wines without excessive markups would stimulate Canadian wine culture, grow consumer interest in local and domestic wines, and likely increase overall wine sales through both the LCBO and private retailers — resulting in higher, not lower, government revenue over time.
In fact, opening Ontario’s borders to BC wines would likely put pressure on Quebec to follow suit. Your leadership on this file could unlock interprovincial wine trade from coast to coast. And with that, Ontario’s thriving wine sector would gain access to Quebec’s massive consumer base — a win for Ontario producers, consumers, and government coffers alike.
You said, “We are not the problem.” Let’s prove it — not just internationally, but here at home. If you’re willing to challenge Washington, I hope you’ll also challenge your fellow premiers to make Canada a true free trade zone for Canadian wine and spirits.
Sincerely,
Ron Kubek | Owner, Lightning Rock Winery
ron@lightningrockwinery.com
Summerland, British Columbia, Canada
We’ve always been about forging genuine connections, friendships, and true partnerships in this industry. Following the 2024 cold snap, which left the Okanagan without a harvest, we turned to our friends south of the border for fruit for this vintage. Through that journey, we discovered exceptional new allies and partners.
Despite our modest size, we’ve long believed that good wine (and good relationships) can cross any border. Now, we’re officially sharing that belief with our neighbours in Washington State, who welcomed us during a critical time when extreme cold left our BC vineyards struggling.
Last winter, a -28°C cold snap devastated nearly all our estate fruit. Rather than accept defeat, we reached out to Washington State growers who opened their arms, and their vines to us. From this came our Cross Border Collection, made from Washington grapes but crafted with the heart and expertise of our team right here in Summerland, BC. These wines are clearly labeled to be transparent about their origin, reminding everyone that a special community effort helped bring them to life.
Even more exciting? The relationships we formed along the way now allow us to ship our Canadian-grown wines into Washington, and soon, we’ll be sharing them with even more parts of the U.S.A.
In May, our Cross Border Collection, produced with Washington grapes and crafted in here in Summerland, will officially be released in Canada, bringing this story full circle. We can’t wait for our Canadian supporters to also raise a glass to the spirit of unity and resilience that guided us every step of the way.
As we begin to share our wines across the border, we’re also working to develop a USA-focused wine club so our American customers can enjoy even more of our wines, hospitality, and the insider fun that comes with membership.
If you’d like to become part of this future, we’d love your input on what you’d like to see—2, 3, or 4 shipments per year? Pop-up dinners in your area?
Send us a note at info@lightningrockwinery.com.
Every bottle from our Cross Border Collection is a celebration of friendship, creativity, and resilience, proof that even the coldest snap can lead to warm new connections.
We can’t wait to share these wines with you, no matter which side of the border you call home. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for joining us on this exciting cross-border journey!
For any inquiries related to this matter from guests or press, please email Ron at ron@lightningrockwinery.com .
A recent BIV news article highlights how Alberta’s tax increase raises the cost of BC wines sold to consumers in Alberta. Not only does this new system interfere with the promise of easy direct-to-consumer shipping between Alberta and BC, but it also imposes an additional financial burden on producers and wine lovers. In some cases, the combined taxes in Alberta could now exceed what we would face exporting our wines to the United States. This is surprising and disappointing for those who have long championed the idea of buying local.
At Lightning Rock, our aim is to practice minimal intervention and sustainable winemaking. We believe that Canadians should be able to enjoy Canadian wine regardless of which province they call home. That is why our owner, Ron, penned a letter to Premier Danielle Smith asking her to reconsider these punitive new taxes. We remain hopeful that open communication will help maintain fair access to local wines. Wine should bring people together, not keep us apart.
Below is the full text of Ron’s letter, which we have also sent to the Premier.
PDF Version of this letter for Download
Lightning Rock Winery
Summerland, BC
March 24, 2025
The Honourable Danielle Smith
Premier of Alberta
307 Legislature Building
10800 – 97 Avenue
Edmonton, AB T5K 2B6
Subject: Alberta Wine Tax Hike – A Tax on Canadian Free Trade
Dear Premier Smith,
As a BC winery owner who has long respected Alberta’s leadership in free markets and open trade, I was deeply disappointed by your government’s recent decision to raise the wine markup from $3.91 to $4.11 per litre and impose a new ad valorem tax of up to 15% on the value of wine sold in Alberta.
After more than a year of negotiations between our provinces, January 2025 finally brought a cooperative agreement that allowed direct-to-consumer wine shipping between BC and Alberta. In July 2024, you called that deal a win for Albertans and British Columbians, promising “more market access for businesses, more prosperity for Albertans and British Columbians.” Now, just months later, these gains are being undone by a tax that targets Canadian wine under the guise of fairness.
You built your public leadership on reducing red tape and fighting back against foreign tariffs and Ottawa overreach. On March 5, 2025, you declared your commitment to “break down restrictive provincial trade barriers” and ensure the “unrestricted movement of goods” across Canada. Yet your government’s new wine markup system does the opposite, raising costs on Canadian wine, disproportionately affecting smaller BC producers like us, and placing new obstacles in the way of interprovincial trade.
You have spoken powerfully against the federal carbon tax, calling it “unfair,” and said that tax increases “punish” ordinary Canadians. That same logic applies here. These taxes are layered on top of wine already subject to excise, GST, and shipping fees. The impact is not just on wineries but\ also on Alberta consumers, who now face higher prices and fewer choices.
Even more concerning is that under the new ad valorem system, many of our wines now face a higher effective tax in Alberta than they would if exported to the United States. Under current U.S. policy, Canadian wine is subject to a 25% tariff. Yet with Alberta’s new $4.11 per litre markup and an ad valorem tax of up to 15% on higher-priced bottles, the combined tax burden in Alberta now exceeds 26-28% for many wines. That means Alberta’s tax regime is more punitive than Trump-era tariffs.
The new taxes apply only to wine over $15, sparing cheaper imported wines but heavily affecting BC wines, most of which are in that higher price category. The agreement between the provinces took months to negotiate and was intended as a one-year experiment. Yet only three months in, your government has imposed a tax that makes BC wines significantly more expensive in Alberta than they are in British Columbia.
As a matter of national pride, we need a national market for our wines.
Premier Smith, we urge you to live up to your words and repeal this damaging tax. Let Alberta once again lead the way in dismantling trade barriers, not building them. Let us work together across provincial lines to make Canadian wine more accessible, more affordable, and more celebrated by Canadians from coast to coast.
Sincerely,
Ron Kubek
Owner & CEO, Lightning Rock Winery
Summerland, BC
We share this letter because we believe open dialogue is essential in addressing these policy issues. At Lightning Rock Winery, our core values include community, sustainability, and the joy of bringing people together to enjoy quality wine. We are hopeful that these same values will guide our leaders to revisit and rethink Alberta’s new tax laws.
Until then, we thank everyone who continues to support local wineries. Every bottle you purchase is a direct investment in the families and farms that keep our wine industry vibrant and true to its roots.
We Would Love to Hear from You
Let’s keep the conversation going. Together, we can work toward a vision of Canada that embraces local growers and producers, ensuring that everyone has a chance to enjoy the best of our regions without unnecessary obstacles.
Cheers from all of us at Lightning Rock Winery, and thank you for standing with us as we navigate these changes.
At our small-scale, family-run winery in the heart of Summerland, BC, we believe wine isn’t just about fancy tasting notes. It’s about connection, laughter, and raising a glass in those real-life moments that matter. That’s why we team up with incredible restaurants and local liquor stores throughout the Okanagan and beyond, making sure you can grab a bottle of Lightning Rock whenever the moments calls for it.
So, next time you’re out and about:
Calling all adventurers and wine enthusiasts! Lightning Rock Winery is thrilled to announce our return to the Grand Somm Express, a one-of-a-kind wine experience that pairs a scenic steam train ride through Summerland with the best of Okanagan wine, ciders, craft beer, and spirits. Whether you’re a local or exploring British Columbia’s wine country for the first time, this event is your ticket to discovering the region in the most delicious way.
Extended Experience
This year’s Grand Somm Express adventure is 30 minutes longer, giving you extra time to sip on award-winning Okanagan wines, sample craft delights, and soak in the natural beauty of Summerland—all at a leisurely pace.
Assigned Seating
Relax and enjoy the ride with friends or family—no seat scrambling. This means more time to revel in the nostalgia of a historic steam train and immerse yourself in a true wine experience.
Reception & Dessert
Kick things off with a lively welcome reception featuring local wines, ciders, craft beers, premium spirits, and gourmet appetizers—setting the stage for an afternoon of indulgence. When you return to the station, treat yourself to a dessert reception because every memorable day deserves a sweet finale.
Onboard Tastings & Live Music
Expert sommeliers will guide you through a curated selection of Okanagan wine, local ciders, and premium spirits, while live music adds an upbeat energy to the journey. It’s a moving festival of flavors through the heart of Summerland!
Shop & Explore
Take home your favorite discoveries at the on-site Martin Street Liquor Merchants’ store. Even better, your event ticket includes a Complimentary All-Access Pass to explore participating Bottleneck Drive establishments from June 19 to June 23, 2025—enjoy drop-in tastings at Summerland’s top wineries, cideries, breweries, and distilleries.
After your train ride, we invite you to keep the celebration going at Lightning Rock Winery for our special dinner event: Where There’s Smoke, There’s Lightning! Once again, we’re partnering with our neighbours at Summerland Smoke Shack to serve up a hearty brisket dinner with all the fixings—tender meat, coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, and a dinner roll, followed by a scrumptious fruit crumble dessert with ice cream. A glass of our favorite Lightning Rock selection is included, making it a perfect pairing to round out your Okanagan wine experience.
The Grand Somm Express in Summerland is more than just a train ride—it’s a celebration of Okanagan wine culture, local cuisine, and the welcoming spirit of our community. Between the panoramic views, the guided tastings, the live music, and our post-train dinner, there’s no better way to experience the region’s bounty.
Secure your tickets now and invite your friends for a day (and evening!) you won’t forget. If you have questions or need additional details, please reach out—we’re here to help you plan the perfect Okanagan wine experience. Hop on board, and let’s toast to Summerland’s Grand Somm Express together!
Valentine’s Day is all about spending quality time with the people you love, and sometimes that means less time in the kitchen and more time chatting over a glass of rosé. Our co-owner, Tracy, has shared two quick, fuss-free dessert recipes that are perfect for a romantic evening—or any sweet occasion. Whip them up, pour your favorite rosé, and focus on what truly matters: good company, heartfelt conversation, and delicious treats. Enjoy!
Looking for the perfect pairing? Our Valentine’s Rosé Pack includes four delicious Rosé’s to keep your glasses full of flavour. Discover Valentine’s Wines…
We hope you enjoy these sweet treats with loved ones—friends, family, or that special someone. Just pour a glass of your favorite Lightning Rock rosé, savor each bite, and remember that the best part of any celebration is the time spent together. Cheers!
Canadians across various industries—forestry, manufacturing, agriculture, and more—have witnessed firsthand how a single piece of legislation or a new tariff can upend business plans and threaten livelihoods. It’s frustrating to see hard-working people caught in the middle of international disputes, forced to deal with sudden policy shifts that are often beyond their control. While it’s necessary to address and adapt to these external pressures, we must not let them overshadow a problem that lies entirely within our own borders: the needless interprovincial restrictions that prevent Canadian wine from being sold freely across our provinces.
Each province in Canada has its own set of regulations and markups that make it nearly impossible for Canadian wineries to sell directly to consumers or retailers outside of their home province.
This system makes little sense in a country that prides itself on international free trade agreements but restricts its own domestic market. Why are we allowing provinces to block Canadian wine from flowing freely when we claim to be a united country?
If we truly want to strengthen the Canadian wine industry and provide consumers with greater choice, we must eliminate these provincial restrictions. The benefits of doing so are clear:
The Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in the Comeau case missed an opportunity to reaffirm true free trade within our country. However, provincial governments still have the power to come together and create a framework that allows Canadian wine to flow freely, just as beer and spirits do in some cases.
While the hardships from U.S. tariffs are understandably top of mind for many, focusing exclusively on external conflicts does a disservice to our own producers and consumers. The real challenge to our industry isn’t just at the U.S. border—it’s also the roadblocks we’ve built between provinces.
I have lobbied the governments of Alberta, BC, and Ontario on this issue, speaking to both the government and the official opposition, yet we still have nothing. The real issue lies with the liquor control boards—BCLDB, AGLC, LCBO, and SAQ—who operate like provincial fiefdoms, prioritizing excessive tax markups while protecting their own producers. If governments insist on collecting more than just sales tax on made-in-Canada wine, we could at least use Alberta’s model—but we need to act quickly.