The Government of Canada is set to provide investment for the development of a grape and wine cluster via the Canadian Grapevine Certification Network (CGCN), which comprises grape and wine producing organisations from across the country.

To be offered under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership’s AgriScience Clusters, the C$8.4m ($6.3m) investment will be used by CGCN to develop the new national research cluster.

Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay said: “I’m thrilled to be launching Canada’s first-ever grape and wine cluster. Our domestic grape and wine sector has had a positive impact on Canada’s economy, and it continues to grow.

“Today’s announcement will help increase the market share of Canadian wines by supporting research that improves wine quality and vineyard management practices.”

“Today’s announcement will help increase the market share of Canadian wines by supporting research that improves wine quality and vineyard management practices, addresses challenges faced by the sector, and builds upon Canada’s international reputation as a top cool-climate wine producer.”

An additional C$3.7m ($2.8m) will also be provided through industry contributions to help growers better protect their crops, test new wine varieties, and analyse growing practices in Canadian vineyards.

CGCN’s chair Hans Buchler said: “This is the first time the four-grape growing provinces have joined forces to form the Canadian Grape and Wine Science Cluster.

“Research plays an important role in the continuous enhancement of the quality of grapes and wine and the reduction of the environmental footprint of the entire production cycle.

“We are very grateful for the investment that the Government of Canada and Minister MacAulay provide toward the ongoing success of the Canadian Grape and Wine sector.”