Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness Rob Flack made his inaugural visit to Brock University on Monday, Jan. 13, using the time to learn about Canada\u2019s premier grape and wine research, outreach and education institute.<\/p>\n
Accompanied by Associate Minister of Energy Intensive Industries and Member of Provincial Parliament for Niagara West Sam Oosterhoff, Flack was welcomed to the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) by Brock leaders as well as the researchers whose work is helping to shape the future of the industry.<\/p>\n
OMAFA recently awarded CCOVI the top spot in the Research and Innovation Excellence category<\/a> of its Excellence in Agriculture Awards.<\/p>\n CCOVI Director Debbie Inglis led the minister through the internationally renowned research institute, sharing insight into recent advancements such as the national Clean Agriculture for Sustainable Production Field Infrastructure project that received provincial funding in 2024<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cPart of our job at CCOVI is to engage with decision-makers and industry leaders to enhance Canada\u2019s cool climate wine and grape capabilities through our research and outreach efforts,\u201d said Inglis.\u00a0\u201cMinister Flack\u2019s visit was a great opportunity to showcase to government our talented team and the world-class efforts that are being made to enhance grape, wine and cider production in Canada.\u201d<\/p>\n Flack toured research laboratories, experienced a tasting of wines produced on site and was given an immersive look into the institute\u2019s famous wine cellar which houses more than 40,000 bottles of research and VQA wines in the Canadian Wine Library.<\/p>\n Through its innovative research and analytical services that directly impact the grape and wine industry in Ontario, CCOVI plays a vital role in the province\u2019s agricultural economy.<\/p>\n \u201cResearch and innovation are critical to the growth and success of Ontario\u2019s agri-food industry. Our government is committed to accelerating this progress, and it is inspiring to see the world-class work being done at Brock University\u2019s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute,\u201d Flack said. \u201cThank you to Brock University for the tour and for supporting the success of Ontario\u2019s dynamic grape and wine sector.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\t