Quality is rising, challenges are mounting, and interest in Canadian wine has never been higher. In this episode, host Billy sits down with Okanagan-based Master of Wine Geoff Moss to explore the regions, grapes, and decisions shaping Canadian wine today.

Geoff shares how he moved from political science into winemaking, how production experience informs his work in branding and DTC strategy, and why his négociant label Søren Wines serves as a live test case for the advice he gives wineries. We dig into the styles Canada does best, from Syrah and Cabernet Franc to Chardonnay and Riesling, and how recent extreme winter freezes (including 2024) are reshaping what gets planted in BC.

We also look at the realities behind bulk wine logistics, export limitations, and the economic pressures facing premium Canadian producers in a soft global market.

In this episode, you’ll learn

• How Geoff Moss MW built a career across production, branding, and direct-to-consumer work.
• Why the Okanagan is both diverse and climate-challenged, with styles ranging from cool-climate Pinot to warm-climate Syrah.
• How recent deep freezes devastated BC’s vineyards, particularly Syrah, and what growers are replanting now.
• Why Niagara shines with cool-climate Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Riesling.
• How Søren Wines sources fruit from BC to Eola–Amity Hills and operates as Geoff’s “proof-of-concept” brand.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction & Meet Geoffrey Moss, MW
01:53 Canada’s Wine Landscape: Regions, Climate & Industry Insights
04:14 Geoffrey’s Path Into Wine & the Origins of Søren Wines
13:24 Production Realities: Logistics, Sourcing & Winemaking Challenges
16:11 Deep Dive into the Okanagan: Style, Diversity & Key Varieties
23:09 Evolution of Okanagan Wines: Merlot, Syrah & Climate Impacts
30:32 Market Dynamics: BC Exports, Ontario’s Cool-Climate Identity
35:18 Niagara’s Standout Grapes & Signature Styles
41:25 The Future of Canadian Wine
46:07 Final Thoughts

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!