Thank you to everyone who registered for the 2026 Spring Wine Forum. The event is currently SOLD OUT, if you would like to join the waitlist for tickets, please email helena@ontariocraftwineries.ca.
The 2026 Spring Wine Forum will bring together leaders from across the province’s wine, hospitality, and tourism sectors. LCBO’s newly appointed interim President & CEO, Aaron Campbell, will also join us to talk about his new role along with what lies ahead for the LBCO’s ongoing focus on local producers.
Date: Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Time: 1:00pm-5:30pm
Location: Shawn and Ed Brewing
65 Hatt St. Dundas, Ontario
REGISTER HERE.
Space is limited.
This gathering is designed to foster dialogue among winemakers, culinary professionals, tourism organizations, and stakeholders in the beverage alcohol industry. Bring your team; this is a great opportunity for your staff to deepen their knowledge, inspire new ideas and gain actionable insights that can be applied immediately. Through expert speakers and networking opportunities, the forum will highlight innovation, and market growth within Ontario’s dynamic wine landscape. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on industry trends, policy updates, and cross-sector opportunities that strengthen Ontario’s position as a premier wine and culinary destination.
Agenda
01:00 PM – 01:45 PM
Session I: “LCBO Industry Update”
An open discussion with LCBO Interim President & CEO Aaron Campbell and VP Merchandising Abhay Garg on the company’s ongoing transformation and role in the evolving marketplace, with a focus on LCBO’s continued commitment to supporting the local industry.
01:45 PM – 02:15 PM
Session II: “Cross-Sector Collaboration & Tourism”
A discussion featuring Andrew Siegwart, President and CEO of The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario and Rob Taylor, member of the Board of Directors with Destination Ontario. This panel will explore how collaboration can elevate Ontario’s wine regions as travel and investment destinations.
02:15 PM – 02:45 PM
Wines of Ontario Marketing Update- Dean Foerter
02:45 PM – 03:00 PM
Coffee Break
03:00 PM – 03:30 PM
Session III: “Innovation in Ontario Wine”
A forward-looking panel discussion led by Gabe Demarco and Allison Findlay on new technologies, sustainability practices, next generation winemakers and product development shaping the future of Ontario winemaking.
03:30 PM – 04:00 PM
Closing Keynote: “The Culinary Lens on Ontario Wine”
A keynote presentation from Chef Charlotte Langley to discuss the untapped market for VQA cool climate wines and how to bridge the gap in the culinary sector. She will also explore how sustainability has impacted the growth and consumer loyalty in her businesses.
04:00 PM – 05:30 PM
Closing Reception
Stay, network, connect and enjoy appetizers, salads, pizzas and wine.