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Ontario celebrates 100 days of Bring Your Own Wine service

More than 700 establishments participate in BYOW

TORONTO -- May 6, 2005 -- For the last 100 days Ontarians have enjoyed the option of bringing their own wine as the number of licensed establishments participating in BYOW across the province has grown to more than 700, Consumer and Business Services Minister Jim Watson announced today.

“In the last three months, participation in BYOW in Ontario has already surpassed that of other provinces that have been offering this service for years,” said Watson. “If you haven’t already had an opportunity to experience BYOW, Mother’s Day is an excellent occasion to toast mom with a special glass of wine at your local restaurant offering BYOW.”

The law permits licensed restaurants and banquet rooms in hotels and motels to allow customers to bring their own bottle of wine. The law also permits all licensed establishments to let their customers remove an unfinished bottle of wine that they either brought with them or ordered as part of their meal. Participating establishments can now offer both services.

“BYOW has given the industry a great opportunity to offer its clients something new and exciting,” said Sandy Ward, avid wine expert and founder of www.BringMyWine.ca. “BYOW is good for the industry and it’s good for the customer.”

The legislation proclaimed in January 2005 also increased public safety by:

  • Allowing the Registrar of Alcohol and Gaming to immediately suspend a liquor licence where there is a threat to public safety.
  • Doubling the minimum fines for offences related to liquor and underage persons. The minimum fine for a licensee has increased to $1,000, and for a non-licensee to $200.
  • Creating new offences for failing to leave a premise when required to by a police officer or for returning to a premise the same day after being asked to leave by the police.

“My patrons like having the options of BYOW,” said Stephen Beckta, owner, Beckta Dining and Wine in Ottawa. “They also like the option of taking home the rest. When you purchase a nice bottle of wine with a meal, it is great to know that the bottle can be resealed and you can enjoy the rest at home.”

In providing restaurateurs with increased choice, the McGuinty government made participation in BYOW voluntary. Eligible establishments are allowed to determine and charge a corkage fee for providing BYOW. Patrons are encouraged to call ahead to inquire whether a restaurant offers the service.


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Contact:
Julie Rosenberg
Ministry of Consumer and Business Services
(416) 326-8558

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