The Niagara wine industry has had some steep competition in recent years, thanks to the booming Ontario craft brewery industry. Now, a new addition is joining the club: microdistilleries.
In Ontario alone, there are over 100 breweries and even more wineries, and distilleries are popping up quickly. This has also inspired many craft breweries and wineries to produce their own spirits to meet the competition.
This rising industry has resulted in some changes to college curriculums in order to help those who wish to get involved or start their own businesses.
Ontario is rising to meet the demand
Many Ontario colleges have already implemented distilling programs that provide training in many aspects of the industry, from the business and sales portion to the science behind it.
Among the list of colleges are George Brown College and Centennial College in Toronto.
These programs prepare future distillery owners with the knowledge they need to know to run successful businesses, such as the legal aspects and taxation regulations. The distilling industry is quite different from the beer and wine industry, so it is important that students learn this crucial information.
Niagara College to launch distilling program this year
In order to prepare more students to head into the craft brewing industry, Niagara College is set to open up a distilling program beginning in September.
However, the college’s program is unique because it offers an on-campus teaching distillery, which is the first of its kind in the country. While it seems revolutionary, and it is, it’s also a logical step as the college already offers a wine and beer school, as well as the on-campus culinary program.
It will be a one year graduate program, designed with three specific parts: practical experience, science, and business. Each of these core components will teach students everything they need to know to be successful in this promising industry.
Boosting the Niagara tourism industry
These distilleries and craft brewery developments in Niagara are adding to the tourism appeal of the region, which is already known for its flourishing wine industry. Together, these successful ventures indicate that there is only one direction for the region to go: forward.
If you’re considering opening a commercial business in Niagara, you’ve chosen the right time. Tourism is booming and the economy is growing more and more every day, so it makes sense to join in on the opportunity.
