Local wine producers are stomping mad with Premier Tim Houston.

It’s sour grapes for the group ‘Wine Growers Nova Scotia.’

They say the province is including two bottling companies in a new subsidy program, meaning more imported grapes can be used.

The wine growers add this could be damaging to the local wine industry.

Liberal opposition leader Zach Churchill questioned Houston in the legislature.

“I’d wonder if the Premier can table the economic study to suggest that this is going to improve the economy if it jeopardizes the grape growers of Nova Scotia,” asked Churchill during Question Period Thursday.

The industry and opposition also suggested Houston is doing this to help a political supporter in the bottling industry.

The Premier deflected those claims, adding the government will continue to look for supports for the local industry.

“We’ll continue to help the industry in a fair and honest way that’s respectful of trade rulings and respectful of the opportunity for the industry,” said Houston.

About 1,100 people are employed in the wine industry in Nova Scotia.