Quebec's progress in local distilling

Current Status & Growth

Large number of distilleries Quebec now has more than 75 microdistilleries spread across 17 regions of the province. Quebec+2distilleriesduquebec.com+2 There is strong growth: ten years ago, there were barely ten. journalleguide.com +1
Product Diversification: We're not just making gin anymore: whiskey, vodkas, liqueurs, eaux-de-vie, honey- or maple-based alcohols, etc. Quebec is also interested in promoting local raw materials, such as maple or cereals and agricultural ingredients. Info from Quebec +4distilleriesduquebec.com +4CARTV +4
Legal Recognition and Protection One of the major advances is the creation of a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for maple brandy: "Acerum du Québec." This means that this product must meet defined criteria (sap or derived products from Quebec, fermentation and distillation). Quebec+2infolanaudiere.ca+2 There are also steps being taken to develop the valuable term "Spirits of Agricultural Origin from Quebec" to protect spirits made from fermentable Quebec raw materials. CARTV
Tourism, Visibility & Economic Impacts Distilleries are becoming attractions: tours, tastings, tourist circuits - they are gaining in traffic. The 2025 summer season is described as "very positive" for sales and visits. Newswire Also, overall sales exceed $100 million in 2024 for microdistilleries, with nearly 500 direct jobs . distilleriesduquebec.com

Regulations & SAQ Monopoly Many distilleries complain that current regulations limit their potential. For example, the SAQ's markup on on-premise sales of spirits is very high (50-75%), which puts a strain on margins. TVA Nouvelles+2SamyRabbat.com+2 There are discussions to relax these rules, including allowing direct sales to consumers and restaurants, and facilitating interprovincial distribution. TVA Nouvelles+1
Financial Survivability / Competitiveness Despite growth, many microdistilleries are experiencing significant economic pressure. High costs of inputs, equipment, distribution, taxes, and restrictive margins due to current regulations. journalleguide.com +2Food Retailer+2 Some producers expect to have to close if aid/reforms do not come. Finances Québec+1
Market Access and Visibility Although the number of Quebec products on SAQ shelves is high, the SAQ plans to remove a significant number of Quebec products (up to 200) to make room for other products. This affects the visibility of smaller brands. journalleguide.com In addition, the capacity to distribute in other provinces or directly to restaurants is limited by current rules. TVA Nouvelles+1

Creation of the IGP Acerum du Québec This promotes a distinctive local spirit, creates recognition, gives consumer confidence, and strengthens Quebec's branding worldwide. Quebec+1
Project for a Valorizing Term The term "Spiritueux d'origine agricole du Québec" is being developed to protect products made with local ingredients fermented and distilled on site. This can help distinguish artisanal products and encourage associated agriculture. CARTV
Upcoming Regulatory Changes The government is studying the possibility of allowing distilleries to sell directly to consumers, without the SAQ serving as a mandatory intermediary. This could include direct delivery, in-restaurant sales, etc. TVA Nouvelles+2lenouvelliste.ca+2
Tourism Impact & Brand Image Microdistilleries are increasingly integrated into gourmet tourism. Offering experiences (tours, tastings) adds value beyond the product itself, helps promote local brands, and supports the regional economy. Newswire

If regulatory reforms come to fruition, this could unlock a lot of potential for microdistilleries: better margins, broader market access, greater capacity for innovation.
The Quebec consumer seems increasingly inclined towards local, artisanal products, rooted in the terroir, which creates a favorable demand.
The sector could also take advantage of geographical indications/promoting terms to distinguish itself internationally.