Try not to whine: SAQ delivery delays means less wine on terrasses this weekend

Wine lovers beware, there might be a limited selection of fermented grape juice at restaurants and bars this weekend.

Only a week after Grand-Prix weekend, restaurants across the province were told that they would not be receiving their regular wine deliveryfrom theSAQ.

On Thursday, the provincial alcoholseller sent out an email announcing itwould temporarilystop delivering shipments to restaurants.

"We are currently experiencing some difficulties with ournew inventory management system," read the email, signed by Xavier Gagnon-Raymond, business development director.

"In order to get your merchandise as quickly as possible, we recommendthat you go to one of the stores."

But for sommeliereSidnie Goineuwho works at ChezVictoire, on Mount-Royal Avenuethe message came too little, too late.

Like every other week, Goineu placed her orderon Tuesday.

She was suspicious when she had not receivedher delivery byThursday so she called the SAQ to find out what went wrong.

It was only later that night, at 11 p.m., that she received an e-mailsaying the restaurant would not be receiving its order on time for theweekend.

"You cannot even go to pick up your private importation, because normally you need to order them 24 hours in advance," said Goineu.

Timing not ideal

David McMillan,owner of Joe Beef and Vin Papillon, said he's never had a problem with the delivery service before.

"I've been in the buying line with SAQ for 25 years. And as far as the delivery goes those guys are ninjas."

He told CBC that it's not going to be good for business if the restaurants can't get their wine.

"The city is packed, the terrasses are full. It's the busiest three weeks and they choose to change their inventory management this week?"

SAQ spokespersonAnne-Sophie Hameltold CBC in an email that they were trying to resolve the situation.

"Our team is working hard on getting everything back on track as soon as possible so we can resume offering the same delivery service we have always provided to those clients."