NIAGARA FALLS — Wine lovers can now bypass the LCBO to pick up that special vino while they shop for groceries.

Two stores in Niagara Falls — Food Basics at 3700 Montrose Rd. and FreshCo, located at 5931 Kalar Rd. in Niagara Falls were the only Niagara stores on a list of 67 named by the province who, as of today, can add wine to the beer and cider they were already permitted to sell.

Charles Sousa, Minister of Finance, announced the locations at a Toronto grocery store. The 67 stores include 20 independent grocery stores and 47 stores owned by large grocers. These stores are in addition to the 57 across the province already selling beer and cider. Ultimately, beer and cider will be available in up to 450 grocery stores across Ontario, including 300 that also sell wine.

“Being able to make one stop to pick up wine alongside other groceries will help make everyday life easier for Ontarians,” Sousa said in a news release outlining the changes. “Opening up this new retail channel for wine producers will also help encourage business to thrive while delivering economic growth and job creation in Ontario’s beverage alcohol, agriculture and tourism sectors.”