Why Buy From Lifford?

Lifford is the largest supplier of wines to the hospitality industry in the province of Ontario and was named Supplier of the Year by the Ontario Hostelry Institute for 2004. But that doesn't mean individual consumers can't purchase wine from us. Though Lifford usually has a few wines available at the LCBO, either on the General List or through the VINTAGES program, the majority of our wines are part of the consignment program. Here is some information on consignment wines and why it makes sense to pay attention to them. (Note: A slightly different version of this article first appeared on Malcolm Jolley's excellent site for foodies, Gremolata. Be sure to check it out!)

What exactly is a "consignment" wine?

Consignment is actually a misleading term. The word consignment refers strictly to the payment terms between the the LCBO and the winery. What you need to know as a consumer is that 75% of the wine selection in the province is imported through the consignment program. If you are only buying your wine direct from the LCBO you are missing the vast majority of fine wine being imported into the province.

The LCBO's consignment program was started as a way for wine agents to import specialty premium wines through the LCBO warehousing system. These wines never appear in the stores and are sold by case lots only by the agents to their customers. Many of these wines are sold to restaurants and resorts, but there is nothing preventing consumers from also enjoying them at home.

How do I purchase consignment wines?

First, call or email the agent or visit their web site to obtain an up-to-date price list. Remember that you must order by the case (but keep in mind that some wines are available in six bottle cases, and in the case of Ontario wines, it's possible to assemble a mixed case). Lifford will deliver the wine directly to your home or office. Depending on your location, shipping charges may apply.

A full case is a big commitment. How can I try the wines before I buy them?

Wine agents are eager for you to try the wines and many participate in local tasting events. Some of these, understandably, are trade-only events, but there are a number of tastings that are open to the public.

A few examples:

The best way to find out if an agent is pouring wine at an event is to be on their mailing list so that you can be notified about special releases and special events.

Many agencies also sell wine to the LCBO VINTAGES programme, and this provides a way for consumers to try a bottle of a particular wine. Even though VINTAGES wines sometimes sell out and are "no longer available" according to the LCBO, consumers can often buy cases of the wines directly from the agent at any time. It is easy to find the agent for a particular wine by calling the LCBO Hotline at (416) 365-5900 or 1-800-668-5226.

Recent press on buying consignment: