Imagine strolling into your local LCBO, heading straight for your favourite bourbon and finding… nothing. If Ontario Premier Doug Ford follows through on his latest warning, this could become a reality.
Speaking at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association Conference on Monday, Ford said he had directed the LCBO to « clear off every bit of U.S. alcohol off the shelves » if U.S. President Donald Trump goes ahead with new tariffs on Canadian goods.
« We’re the largest purchaser of alcohol in the entire world, » Ford said on Monday. « They will feel the pain. »
This all comes in response to Trump’s threat to impose a punishing 25 percent tariff on all Canadian imports to the U.S., which could come into effect as soon as February 1. Ford warned last week that the proposed measures could cost the province up to 500,000 jobs.
While this would be a bold retaliation, it’s a move that could leave Ontarians saying goodbye to some beloved bottles. From iconic bourbons to popular beer and coolers, here are the U.S. products that might vanish if this showdown escalates.
Whisky
From Tennessee whiskey to Kentucky bourbon and even Pennsylvania rye, you’ll have to say goodbye to a whole shelf of U.S. favourites.
Everything from mainstays like Jack Daniel’s and Jim Beam to top-shelf favourites like Bulleit, Maker’s Mark, Buffalo Trace and Wild Turkey would also disappear — a devastating blow for whisky lovers across the province.
Vodka
If Ford sticks to his word, you’ll have to find alternatives for trendy vodkas like Tito’s, New Amsterdam Pink Whitney and White Claw’s vodka (yes, the iconic Canadian cooler brand’s vodka is made in Kentucky, not here). Vodka soda season just got a lot harder.
Rum
For rum enthusiasts, brands like Captain Morgan, Sailor Jerry and The Kraken could be off the table. Even certain U.S.-produced Bacardi varieties could be cut from the lineup.
Gin
Lovers of Aviation Gin — yes, Ryan Reynolds’ label — might find it ironic that the iconic Canadian actor’s product is on the chopping block. Other specialty U.S. gins like Gray Whale and Mr. Pickles would also be cleared out.
Liqueurs
Iconic liqueurs like Sour Puss, Rumchata and Kamora might be MIA too, along with many others. Let’s just say your cocktail game might need a rethink.
Coolers
Popular pre-mixed options like High Noon and Mott’s Clamato Caesars (which, ironically, are made in New Jersey — how Canadian of them) could also disappear from your summer plans.
Beer & cider
While many iconic U.S. beer brands are actually brewed locally (including Budweiser, Pabst, Coors and others), imports like Samuel Adams, Angry Orchard and Kona would be among the few still affected. It’s not a total wipeout, but it’s enough to make a dent in your beer fridge.
Stay tuned, Ontario — this tariff war could be coming for your liquor cabinet.
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