Winnipeggers react to American liquor returning to the shelves
Posted December 10, 2025 5:55 pm.
U.S.-made alcohol is back on the shelves in Manitoba after it was taken down amid the trade war with the U.S.
At the Fort Richmond Liquor Mart, one of seven locations in Winnipeg, they are selling American spirits until December 24.
CityNews hit the streets to find out if Manitobans will reach for the returning products or stick with other brands.
U.S. liquor was pulled from Manitoba Liquor Marts on March 4th. But this week, the province temporarily lifted the ban, first selling to private retailers on Monday, where nearly two million dollars’ worth was bought within hours. By Wednesday, select Liquor Marts began offering American products like Jack Daniel’s back to the public.
“I just bought four bottles, some local stuff as well, but my daughter likes aphotic wines,” said Denton Bandersteen, a Liquor Mart shopper. “The liquor that’s been purchased has already been paid for, so if it’s on the shelf or not, the money is already gone.”
Warren Norris, another Liquor Mart shopper, said, “I’ll take a look, but I am so against this American thing I want to see it all the way through.”
While Trudy Clark, a Liquor Mart shopper, said, “We always try to buy local, but my husband enjoys Kraken, so we did pick some up.” Adding, “It’s bought and paid for already, don’t let it go to waste, don’t buy anymore, but it’s just taking up space in a warehouse, right?”
On Tuesday, Premier Wab Kinew said demand far exceeded his expectations and said proceeds from these sales will go to local charities in Manitoba.
“The only thing more popular than taking U.S. booze off the shelves is putting U.S. booze back on the shelves,” said Kinew.
Alexandria Horyshen, a Liquor Mart shopper, added, “I definitely am open to trying U.S. liquor if it’s going to charities.”
Another Liquor Mart shopper said, “I think everybody who is buying American booze today should get tax receipts on their income tax.”
The province currently has about $8 million worth of American liquor still in storage.
