Robert Bell's

Wines of Canada

Since 1992

 

Nova Scotia

Bear River Winery and Vineyards
Bear River Winery and Vineyards

Nova Scotia, a Peninsula on Canada's East Coast bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Bay of Fundy . The southern tip of Nova Scotia dips below the 45th. parallel. There are six very distinct wine growing areas.

The Grape Growers Association of Nova Scotia was established in 1982. Nova Scotia boasts 22 grape growers and 400 acres of grapes The first varieties to show promise in Nova Scotia were French hybrids: Marechal Foch, DeChaunac, Castel 19637, Baco Noir, Leon Millot, and Seyval Blanc. Two Russian hybrids, Mischurnitz and Severnyi, which are Amurensis crosses, were also of interest for early ripening, high sugar content, good production and winter hardiness. One of the world's coldest grape-growing areas, cool-climate whites are a staple here, including a unique varietal known as L'Acadie Blanc

The Nova Scotia wine industry has a climate and soil conditions that flavour unique and distinctive grape varietals, an abundant supply of inexpensive land for potential development, unfettered by urban encroachment and strong transportation links and proximity to the large Eastern USA markets and Europe

The history of winemaking in Nova Scotia can be traced back to the year 1611 when French settler Louis Hébert planted the first vineyard in Bear River. The Nova Scotia Wine Standards (NSWS) were adopted by the Winery Association of Nova Scotia in the summer of 2005. The new standards established content restrictions and labeling standards for wines produced in that province. The NSWS allows a wine to use the provincial designation "Nova Scotia" as a geographical indication, provided it meets all NSWS and contains no less than 85% of the wine's content from grapes grown within the province; the remaining 15% must be grown in Canada.

In 1984 researcher Helen Fisher supplied cuttings of Ollie Brant selection V.53261 to be evaluated by Dr. Don Craig at the Kentville Research Station. This selection was orphaned in Ontario, and after successful evaluation in Nova Scotia became the award winning wine variety named L'Acadie ~ the wine L'Acadie Blanc

Nova Scotia's two-dozen wineries are mostly just a couple of hours drive from Halifax.

Atlantic Wine Institute opened at the Acadia Centre for Rural Innovation at Acadia University in 2012

A recent economic impact study commissioned by the Canadian Vintners Association and the winery associations of Nova Scotia, British Columbia, Quebec and Ontario found that the wine industry contributes $196 million annually to the Nova Scotia economy. (info posted Dec2013)

Officially launched in June 2012, Tidal Bay is the first wine appellation for Nova Scotia. To obtain the Tidal Bay designation, all wines must be made from specific grape varieties, include 100% Nova Scotia grown grapes, follow a strict set of standards and be approved every year by an independent blind tasting panel. These standards were created by a committee of winemakers, sommeliers and wine experts and are strictly enforced throughout the winemaking process, from growing to bottling.

Mercantor - photo credit Mark Davidson

Mercantor - photo credit Mark Davidson

Beausoleil Farmstead


1365 Church Street Vineyard and Winery

1365 Church Street
Port Williams


This 13-acre vineyard has breathtaking views of the Wellington Dyke, North Mountain and Cape Blomidon, and the entire property is nestled in vines. the owners are  John and Amber Eikelenboom.

John left his life as a dairy farmer purchasing his parents dairt farm in 1976. He developed Ryan's Creek Vineyards (26 acres) selling his grapes to the local wineris.

John went from a grape grower in Ryan’s Creek, to purchasing 1365 Church Street in 2015, near Wolfville. In June of 2016, 8.4 acres were planted on the property, completely surrounding the main house and all of the buildings. In 2019 a further 6.4 acres were planted directly behind the old apple barn (now winery). In 2020 construction of the boutique winery began and it opened in February of 2021. This old apple barn now boasts breathtaking views of the vineyard, North Mountain, Wellington Dyke and Cape Blomidon.

Winemaker:: John and Patrick Cantini are the winemakers 

Avondale Sky Winery

80 Avondale Cross Road
RR #2 Newport Landing
NS B0N 2A0


Avondale winery has new owners the Coutinho family. Louis his wife Avila their daughter Jamie and two sons Karl and Sean.

We're a family owned boutique farm winery on old gypsum land surrounded by the tidal rivers.

Louis is the former Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the Town of Windsor and a very active and committed volunteer.Most recently, Louis was elected as a board member to the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators (CAMA) for Nova Scotia and PEI.

Avondale Sky Winery founded by Stewart Creaser and Lorraine Vassalo, who escaped their stressful careers for a life in the country. After searching province wide, they found their farm on the Avon Peninsula. The farm is surrounded by the ever changing tidal landscape of the St. Croix and Avon Rivers, rolling hills, and the panoramic Avondale sky. There was an old vineyard on the property .

Rather than construct a new winery, the decision was made to salvage an old barn which was looking forlorn on a dike along the St. Croix River ten kilometers from the vineyard. They also purchased St. Matthews Church from Walton.

The winery opened in 2011 but they also opened big under winemaker Ben Swetman offering 10 whites, 4 Rose and one red. The Reds are currently aging. As while as using estate grown grapes and local grapes, Riesling and other grapes are brought in from Ontario. They have 27 acres of vineyard currently growing 12 varieties under vineyard manager Pete Smits.

Tidal Bay (blend, crafted from L'Acadie and Geisenheim)won Gold at The 2011 Atlantic Canadian Wine Awards

 signature wines? Bliss, Tidal Bay, Drops of Amber, Benediction, Lady Slipper

amenities : Wifi, dog friendly, picnic tables, restaurant, tasting bar, tours, etc..

Avondale Sky Winery also has a restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant is located in the former St. Matthews Church and offers a menu that is well put together and made with local ingredients 4. They also offer wellness retreats, live music, yoga in the vineyard, and other special events 4.

Read More

Winemaker: Ben Swetnam,

Winemaking Philosophy: Quality first and wines for all kinds



Bear River Vineyards

133 Chute Road
Bear River, NS B0S 1B0

Bear River Vineyards


Darren Carey is the new owner along with his wife Susan Wong. She is the winemaker.

 The vineyard is situated on steeply sloped valley walls above Bear River, a tidal estuary that flows into the Annapolis Basin

Located in the beautiful Bear River Valley near the south western end of the Annapolis Basin. The winery formerly owned owned by Chris Hawes became the only licensed Cottage Winery in the Province of Nova Scotia in February 2006. Chris claims to be the smallest winery with only 3.6 acres planted over the last 12 years he began growing grapes in 1987. He planted the first Pinot Noir vines in the province here in 1993.

The farm house beside the vineyard was built in 1784. The winery building was built in 1883 and the first experimental planting by the NS Dept. of Agriculture was in 1963.

The vineyard is now 5 acres produces 400 cases

The vineyard environment and aspect in Bear River ripens eight varieties of vinifera. Well drained glacial soil and steeply sloping rows, warmed by the inland flow of the sea creates an ideal vineyard climate. Wines produced include Chardonnay Pinot, Gris, Baco Noir and Pinot Noir.

Future plans include expanding the vineyard, which will increase production, there by allowing the winery to distribute their-wines more broadly in the future (over the next 2-3 years).  They also plan on adding more guest accommodations so that more people can stay and enjoy the beauty of this scenic property.

 

Winemaker: Susan Wong, Consultant Patrick Cantieni




Beauusoleil Farmstead Winery
& Cidery

1469 B Church St
Port Williams Nova Scotia

Melanie and Jake Eelman, rooted in Nova Scotia’s farming, returned from central Canada with a dream. In 2017, they transformed 21 acres in the Annapolis Valley into Beausoleil Farmstead, a name inspired by the land’s natural radiance. Their boutique cidery and winery, born from sustainable practices and cellar innovation, now flourishes with unique grape varieties and heirloom apples—a testament to the Eelman family’s commitment to their heritage and the art of fine ciders and wines.

 They called the property Beausoleil, which means “beautiful sun” in French.

They are guided by sustainable framing practices. They produce wine and cider. Melanie is the cidermaker.


Winemaker::



Beaver Creek Winery

496 Carleton Rd
RR#1
Lawrencetown NS B0S1M0

Beaver Creek Winery


Les and Paulette Wade are the proud owners & operators of this Fruit winery and meadery. Started in 2005 as a hobby. In 2008 was licensed to manufacture wines to sell off site. In 2010, they found out that it was a dry county which meant overturning a 1934 prohibition by law to allow a retail store onsite . The Wades canvased like politicians in our town and won over 90% of the vote

The name comes from a creek that runs through the property with a Beaver population.

Beaver Creek Winery is housed in a historic bank barn that dates back to 1883. The unique four-and-a-half-story design of the bank barn allows for gravity-fed wine production, ensuring their grapes and wines are treated as delicately as possible to preserve their integrity and quality during the process  The concrete floors and stone walls of the cellars provide naturally consistent cool temperatures for their wines throughout their life from fermentation through to bottling and aging 2.

The winery specializes in fruit wines which are made from locally grown fruit from around the valley. Over 21 different varieties of fruit wines including Naked Mead, our famous honeymoon wine made from pure honey

signature wines: Mead, cranberry and pear.

The future has plans to produce grape wines.

Winemaker: Paulette Wade
Philosophy: relax, its only wine.




Benjamin Bridge

1842 White Rock Road RR1
Wolfville, NS B4P 2R1

Benjamin Bridge


Located in the Gaspereau Valley, the winery was founded by Gerry McConnell and his late wife Dara Gordon. Their project is to create great sparkling wines. Benjamin Bridge also produces icewine "Vidal is much better here than in Ontario", offers wine consultant Peter Gamble, "the natural acid is higher at harvest, typically around 18 g/l, whereas in Ontario it is usually 9 g/l, so they need to add acid for balance."

Since early 2010, Gerry and Dara's twin daughters Devon and Ashley McConnell-Gordon have run the daily operations of the winery. Also working with the winery as a sparkling consultant Raphaël Brisbois

Benjamin Bridge has distinguished itself as one of Canada's top producers of sparkling wine and built a national following for its critically-acclaimed Nova 7, which has helped raise the profile of Nova Scotia's wine industry within Canada and abroad.

The winery is also gaining fame for all its wines Conceived by Canadian winemaking icon Peter J. Gamble, Nova 7 is a proprietary blend of signature aromatic whites, highlighting select Muscat grape varieties. Inspired by the European tradition of lightly sparkling, off-dry wines, Nova 7 is uniquely Nova Scotian, combining the region's lively acidity with elegant aromatics.

Tony Aspler Canadian wine author wrote without question, the best sparkling wines I have tasted in Canada

In 2014 Gerry McConnell, announced plans to carve out wine storage caves at his Gaspereau Valley site like they have in Champagne and build a spectacular visitors centre made of glass that will afford tourists from around the world panoramic views of the Gaspereau Valley.

They grow Osceola Muscat !

Wine available in Finland

Winemaker: Jean-Benoit Deslauriers




Bent Ridge Winery

4499 Highway 14
Windsor, Nova Scotia

Bent Ridge


The winery is owned by theby brothers Steven and Glenn Dodge..

Steven and Glenn Dodge built Bent Ridge as a destination that captured the eclectic mix of  people, locations and events that shape our lives.​ A small batch winery and pico brewery, located in the middle of one of the province's most popular u-pick orchards, Bent Ridge offers guests a unique escape and a great way to spend an hour or an afternoon.

Their  wine making philosophy stems from a belief that you can't make great wine without great grapes. The vineyards were first planted in 2009.  ​Bent Ridge was the first vineyard to grow Marquette grapes and remains the largest dedicated grower of Marquette grapes in Atlantic Canada.  

 

Thomas Laszlo joined the Bent Ridge team in 2017 as a consultant.

Winemaker::



Blomidon Estate Winery

10318 Hwy 221 PO Box 208
Canning, NS B0P 1H0

Blomidon Estate Winery


Located in Canning, Nova Scotia, in the heart of the Annapolis Valley on Minas Basin, home to the world's highest tides. Officially known as Blomidon Estate Winery at Habitant Vineyards. The winery is named after Blomidon Provincial Park which is located nearby.

The original vines were planted in 1986 as part of an experimental vineyard and later sold to Jost Winery; they opened the winery in 1997 and in 2008 it was sold to the Ramey family. Marilyn Ramey is president

The unique climate of the Minas Basin allows for the grapes to thrive, tides influence the temperature and air movement. Gentle south-facing slopes allow for great drainage and maximal sun exposure. The sandy soil is also beneficial. All of which contributes to the production of award winning wines, most recently award winning wines.

Blomidon Estate Winery and its estate vineyards (25 acres) are located on the north shore of the Bay of Fundy. Eleven acres planted with Chardonnay, Baco Noir, L'Acadie Blanc, Seyval Blanc, Luci Kuhlmann, Marechal Foch, Leon Millot, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, New York Muscat. The land's gentle slope and sandy soil provides the vines with good drainage while the south facing slope of the vineyard allows the grapes maximum sun exposure. Most importantly, the inlets to the bay have the highest tides in the world, up to 16 meters. This truly unique tidal motion creates an extraordinarily unique environment for grape growing. The high tides of the region protect vines from freezing temperatures and frost by ensuring air movement and moderating temperatures year round.

Blomidon Estate Winery Dec 2013 launched the province's first traditional method sparkling red wine, made from an equal blend of Marechal Foch and Lucie Kuhlman grapes


Winemaker: Simon Rafuse
Philosophy: Respect our unique maritime terroir to make pure, exceptional wines from our estate-grown, 100% Nova Scotian grapes.

Signature wines are 100% Nova Scotia Chardonnay, L'Acadie Blanc, Baco Noir and Seyval




Casa Nova Fine Beverages

2635 Clementsvale Road
Bear River East, Nova Scotia
B0S 1B0


 

One of two wineries to open in the small but charming community of Bear River, along the Bay of Fundy
The winery’s vineyard is south-facing and comprised of several benches of well-drained, sand, gravel, slate and granite soils, resembling those of Alsace and the Mosel in the prestigious wine regions of France and Germany. At 400' above sea level their vineyard is not affected by the fog or cold ocean air, providing long, hot, sunny days necessary for producing premium quality grapes

The winery is owned by Karen & Brendan Enright who moved from Ontario in 2002 looking for a better life style. They chose the name to represent the province of Nova Scotia. They own the winery along with, Piers Greenwood.

Brendan Enright has extensive experience in wine and cider making.  He has been cider making consultant to more than six other Cideries in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.  Karen Enright has a business and marketing background.  Piers Greenwood is one of the most decorated winemakers from the UK and relocated to Nova Scotia on a full time basis in 2017.

They have add cider to their products called 1606 Good Cheer Cider. In 1606 Samuel De Champlain founded the Order of Good Cheer in Port Royal, Nova Scotia. Their brands include Buddy's, 1606, Crabby Granny, Casa Nova

They also produce Nova Scotia fruit Cellos.

cider making Philosophy: Let the fruit speak for itself and encourage it release its distinctive qualities.  We use 100% Nova Scotia purchased fruit and do not use enhancers.


Philosophy: Provide premium quality Nova Scotia wines. We also like to think outside the box when it comes to varieties and have in the past and will continue to test varieties not common to the province




Eileanan Brèagha

5349 Marble Mountain Road Inverness Co., NS, Canada, B0E 3K0




Situated on Cape Breton’s Bras D’Or Lakes, they are Nova Scotia’s northernmost estate winery. Eileanan Brèagha is Scottish Gaelic for “beautiful islands.” The vineyard was named in homage to the owner’s Gaelic heritage and for the majestic view of the numerous small islands in the Bras d’Or Lakes which can be seen from the property.


In 1993, John Pratt planted the first grape vines here in Marble Mountain. Originally known as “Côte de Bras D’Or”, the vineyard sits on a 200 acre former homestead property overlooking the Lakes. With south-east exposure and the salt water lake providing maritime climate moderation, the property experiences late springs and a growing season extending into late autumn.

They have 200 acres overlooking the lakes

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Elmwood Winery

105 Craig Chandler Drive
Bridgewater, Nova Scotia


Elmwood Winery

The winery was recently sold.

 

A small 2.4 acre (one hectare) vineyard located n Pine Grove, Lunenburg County. They have been growing wine grapes on this site since 2003. Prior to that, They had a small vineyard in Elmwood, Lunenburg County. Owned by Dr. Bruce Wright and Sandra Wright.

They grow:  red varieties are Leon Millot and Baco Noir with new plantings of Chambourcin. White varieties are L’Acadie blanc and Geisenheim with a small amount of New York Muscat for blending purposes.

They also produce mead

The winery is Certified Naturally Grown (CNG), a farmer driven organization. They are a member of Energize Bridgewatera community-wide initiative led by the Town of Bridgewater, Nova Scotia.

Bruce has written two books about the Grapes and Wine in Nova Scotia, Wamboldt’s Nova Scotia Grape Growers’ Guide, 2006 edition with C. Naugler, and The Tangled Vine: Winegrowing in Nova Scotia with C. Naugler and R. Murray

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Fox Harb’r Vineyards

1337 Fox Harb'r Road,
Wallace, Nova Scotia

 

 

The Fox Harb'r resort has join with Devonian Coast Wineries to establish a vineyard on it property. The 1,100-acre property is owned by Canadian businessman Ron Joyce and opened in 2000. This will create a unique wine destination and tourism hot spot in the province
m sorry, but I couldn’t find any information about the facilities of Fox Harb’r Vineyards. However, I found that Fox Harb’r Vineyards is part of the Fox Harb’r Resort, which is a 5-star resort that offers a variety of activities, including golfing, spa treatments, and fine dining 12 . The resort features a championship golf course, an Olympic-sized indoor swimming pool, a shooting range, and two restaurants: Cape Cliff and The Willard Room . Cape Cliff offers a formal atmosphere and a menu for breakfast and dinner, while The Willard Room serves up more casual fare for lunch and dinne

According to CBC News, Fox Harb’r Resort is owned by Ron Joyce’s heirs. Ron Joyce was the billionaire co-founder of the Tim Hortons coffee and fast-food chain who developed the luxury resort near his hometown of Tatamagouche.


Winemaker::




Fuller Cellar Vineyards


Hantsport NS

NA

 

Fuller Cellar Vineyard is located near Hantsport, Nova Scotia. We have four acres under vines with an additional seven to be planted in the spring of next year with varieties such as BC Riesling, Chardonnay and lucie kuhlmann. Currently we have varieties such as Leon Millot, Baco Noir and L’acadie Blanc.

The vineyard is owned by John and Eikelenboom They own 1365 Street Vineyard.


Winemaker:
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Gaspereau Vineyards

2239 White Rock Road
Gaspereau, NS B4P 2R1

 


Situated in the beautiful Gaspereau Valley seven miles from Wolfville. Once an apple orchard the vineyard was planted in 1996 on the ideal south facing slope followed by a successful harvest in 1999. The winery opened in 2004

At Gaspereau Vineyards, Jost planted Chardonnay, Riesling, Ortega and Vidal on the warmer upper part of a vineyard and varieties such as De Chaunac, L'Acadie, New York Muscat and Kuhlmann further down what is a fairly continual slope. “Chardonnay always makes it through the winter and it produces a decent wine,” Jost says. “But I like L'Acadie,” referring to the most widely planted white variety in Nova Scotia . On the Gaspereau site, the variety yields a wine that the wine shop staff describe as “dangerously drinkable.” The wine shows sweet, zesty citrus flavours with a dry finish.

The winery is owned by Devonian Coast Wineries


Grand Prè Wines

11611 Hwy 1 PO Box 105,
Grand Pré, NS B0P 1M0


The winery was founded in 1978; the first winery in Nova Scotia. In 1993, Swiss businessman, Hanspeter Stutz, bought Grand Pré. Stutz was undaunted by the challenge of purchasing and restoring the vineyard. Now, with his vision and determination, Mr. Stutz has successfully established Domaine de Grand Pré as a proud and viable winery. It is a family business with son Jürg winemaker, daughter Beatrice manages the restaurant.

The only winery in Nova Scotia that offers the full wine & dine experience. Award winning restaurant named Le Caveau; built in the original 1828 house. Grand Pre became an UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2012


Domaine de Grand Pré has a unique approach to winemaking. Unlike most New World wineries producing Old World wines, such as Chardonnay, Hanspeter believes wine producers should develop distinct varieties, styles and vineyard practices based on particular soils and climates. To achieve this, Domaine de Grand Pré has partnered with the Agriculture Canada Station in Kentville, Nova Scotia to develop unique Nova Scotian varieties.

The winery has a very nice tasting bar. Tasting Fees apply. They produce icewine, port style wines and other dessert wines. The Domaine has a unique approach to winemaking. Unlike most New World wineries producing Old World wines, Hanspeter believes producers should develop distinct varieties, styles, and vineyard practices based on particular soils and climates.

The lush gardens and beautiful grounds falls under the guidance of Hanspeter partner Anne.

signature wines are Tidal Bay, L'Acadie Blanc, Muscat, Ortega, Castel, Cabernet Foch

Winemaker: Jürg Stutz
Philosophy: Life is too short to drink bad wine





Jost Vineyards Ltd

48 Vintage Lane
Malagash, NS B0K 1E0




Jost Vineyards, situated on the northern shores of Nova Scotia, combines more than 300 years of grape growing and wine making traditions with a long warm, frost free season. Jost Vineyards history begins with Hans Wilhelm Jost and family in the Rhine region of Germany. The Christinenhof was a successful family-run vineyard and cellar, highly praised for its wine quality.

In 1970, in search of vast lands and new freedoms, the Jost family, Hans, Erna and children, Hans Christian and Ellen, immigrated to Nova Scotia. It was not until 1978 that the Jost's returned to the family tradition and began experimenting with grapes. With the success of these grapevines, more vineyards were planted and a use for the resulting harvest required. Jost Vineyards became a licensed winery in November 1983 and the first cellar was built in 1984.

The winery has over 75 acres located in the Malagash and Gaspereau Valley. The most common varieties are Marechal Foch, L'Acadie Blanc, Muscat, Leon Millot, Geisenheim, Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc, Mischurnitz and Severnyi.

The Vintage Loft operates during the summer and is a charming gift store filled with local crafts, books and unique gift ideas. The Charity Grape Stomp in September is always a great time and enjoyment is almost a guarantee.

The winery is owned by Devonian Coast Wineries. Carl Sparkes purchased Jost Winery through his new company, Devonian Coast Wineries Ltd in May 2012. They have over 100 acres. The winery, which was fully redesigned and renovated in 2013, is rustic, yet elegant. A beautiful circular tasting bar, meant to resemble a large oak barrique, is the centre piece of our cathedral-ceilinged lounge.



Philosophy: "Produce crisp, clean wines. The flavour of the wine should come from the fermentation of clean grapes and juice".

Jost believes the long, gentle growing season in Nova Scotia brings forth unique characteristics to the wine. Wine is created in the vineyard. Their 1999 Vidal Icewine from Jost Vineyards of Malagash beat 594 other entries in the All-Canadian Wine Championships



L'Acadie Vineyards

310 Slayter Road
Gaspereau, NS

 



 

Nova Scotia's first certified organic winery

Their wines are certified by Biocyclic Vegan International, from soil to glass.

Picture this:  The beautiful and warm Gaspereau Valley… the province’s first certified organic winery… every bottle of wine produced from 100% Nova Scotia grown grapes.

Owners Bruce Ewert and his wife Pauline Scott had this picture in their minds when they came back to Nova Scotia and started L’Acadie Vineyards in 2004.  Organic since planting in 2006, they have the first certified organic winery and are industry leaders in encouraging and mentoring other vineyards and wineries to think and grow organically.

Bruce and Pauline grow primarily L’Acadie Blanc grapes and craft them into premium, traditionally bottle fermented sparkling wines and still wines.  L’Acadie Blanc is a flavourful grape variety well suited to the unique, cool climate growing conditions and is named for the rich farming heritage of the region.

Bruce brings with him a wealth of winemaking experience including BC’s Okanagan, California and Australia.  The couple chose the Gaspereau Valley, now the centre of Nova Scotia wine country, and their Estate provides unique soil which is well-drained, mineral rocky slate with a 5% slope for cold air drainage- a perfect terroir for their wines.

L’Acadie Vineyards specializes in Traditional Method Sparkling wine, their Vintage Cuvee is the province’s top selling Nova Scotia traditional method bubbly.
Prestige Brut was the only entry from Canada to win a medal in the 9th international competition of the world’s best sparkling wines, Effervescents du Monde®  2011.

2010 Prestige Brut Estate Zero Dosage was awarded a silver at the 2015 Effervescents du Monde competition of the best sparkling wines of the world held in Dijon, France.

Recently, one of his sparkling wines earned a prestigious Decanter World Wine Award in London. It's something that no Nova Scotian wine has achieved until now!

The winery makes Passito an Italian winemaking process in which harvested grapes are dried before being pressed to help increase and concentrate the sugar levels prior to fermentation. The rate of drying is important, as are conditions such as temperature and humidity. L’Acadie’s Passito is a rich red wine, great for this blustery time of year. Made with Leon Millot and Marechal Foch grapes, the wine is certified organic.

certified to the European Biocyclic Vegan Standard! First in North America!

In 2021, in addition to our long-standing organic certification, we became the first certified Biocyclic Vegan farm in North America. This progressive German-based organization has developed a rigorous & holistic standard to which we hold ourselves to. The Biocyclic Vegan ideology goes beyond most vegan certifications to include biodiversity, soil vitality, regenerative agriculture & social equity. We have been farming and winemaking veganically (vegan + organic) for quite some time and in 2021 found ourselves with a growing desire to seek certification to offer consumer transparency for our eco-conscious & plant-based fans. When we discovered the Biocyclic Vegan standard all the stars aligned. We love what they do, we love what we do, and we wouldn’t do it any other way.

Winemaker:  Bruce Ewert
Signature Wines:  Prestige Brut, Vintage Cuvee, Estate L’Acadie
Philosophy:  Wines that show their terroir from living soils

 




Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards

11197 Evangeline Trail Wolfville
NS B4P 2S3



Established in 2009 practicing biodynamic winery with 35+ acres of vines on two sites, one on the edge of Wolfville and the other in nearby Avonport. Both vineyards have breathtaking views of Cape Blomidon, and benefit from the Minas Basin's moderating impact on climate. They are on the edge of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Grand Pre in the Annapolis Valley. The vineyards are certified organic

They focus on classic vinifera includes Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, and other German-styled whites specifically selected for the regions microclimates.

The winery is owned by Michael & Jocelyn Lightfoot

The Lightfoot name goes back eight generations in Wolfville. Originating in northern England, it referred to the swift-footedness of our forebears who traditionally worked as messengers. At Lightfoot & Wolfville we like to think we bring a light touch and enlightened approach to both the agricultural and artisanal parts of our work – letting the land offer up its innate best, without subjecting it to aggressive inputs; letting our wines benefit from classic winemaking methods, emphasizing gentle gravity production and natural wild-yeast fermentations.

 Lightfoot and Wolfville Vineyards was bestowed the honour of Winery of the Year from the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers 2017.

The winery opened its new hospitality center in 2017 a 50,000 square-foot facility with a stunning view of Cape Blomidon open.

Consulting winemaker is Peter Gamble




Lost Bell


11 Dudley Park Lane
Falmont NS


 

Founded in 1980's by industry pioneers Doug and Suzanne Corrkum who created Sainte-Famile Winery. They sold this winery and statred Lost Bell. The name Lost Bell is inspired by the story of the lost church bell of Sainte-Famille Parish, rumoured to be filled with precious metals, and hidden in a pond at the vineyard by its former Acadian inhabitants. While it has not yet been recovered, similar bells have been unearthed in the atlantic region.

Joining the team is winemaker Tony Barkhouse.

Winemaker:
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Luckett Vineyards


1293 Grand Pre Road
Wolfville, Nova Scotia
B4P 2R3


Located near Wolfville Nova Scotia Luckett Vineyards and nearby Bay of Fundy. The unique tidal airflow from the Bay of Fundy provides mild temperatures year round, preventing late frosts in the spring and early frosts in the fall. In addition to providing a generous micro-climate, the dramatic land formations allow spectacular vistas .

The Gaspereau Valley winery is owned by Pete and Sue Luckett. Pete formed one of Atlantic Canada's best known and loved brands: Pete's Frootique. Three award winning stores and countless well-fed customers later, Pete has kept close to his roots as the charming grocer and energetic personality. Always looking with an entrepreneurial eye towards new adventures, he sees the vineyard as a true calling

Pete Luckett is a name synonymous with fine fare in Nova Scotia.  His culinary explorations began as a stall owner in Nottingham, England, and led him around the world before he chose to settle in the Maritimes. 

Signature wine Ortega

Winemaker: Mike Mainguy
Philosophy:





Lunenburg County Winery

RR #3 Mahone Bay
Newburne, NS B0J 2E0


Located on the South Shore on a 100 Acre Commercial Blueberry Farm. The farm is nestled on a drumlin, surrounded by Acadian forest,in a county dotted by lakes. Our vineyards and acres of blueberries land other soft fruits are within a mile of the LaHave River (North Branch). The winery opened in 1994.

Heather Sanft is the president and owner. Heather Sanft (is also the winemakers wife) was born in Halifax, NS a 8th generation Nova Scotian whose family arrived in 1753 from Montbeliard, France.

They have 24 fruit wines made from only 100% NS grown fruit and 4 grape wines also made from 100% NS grapes. Their award winning wines include Apple, Cranberry, Blueberry and the noted Montbeliard Pear*. They also produce two maple flavoured wines Oxbells, Fireflies and Kejimkujik Maple. Signature wines: Montbeliard Pear, Blueberry and New York Muscat

Winemaker: Daniel Sanft




Midgrad Meadery


Scotch Lake
Nova Scotia

 


The meadery has been producing organic honey and mead since 2002. The farm resides next to the churning Georges River which is dwarfed by the natural beauty and peace of the Barrachois Hills to the North. The owners Micheal Magnini and Jenn Holtom roots are Celtic and Roman in origin and they love to explore the myths, legends and history of our glorious past and it reflects in their labeling and branding.

The adventure began with the introduction of Italian honey bees to their small farm. Today they have beehives in multiple apiaries across Cape Breton.

Signature meads are Valhalla and Mjolnir and a sweet mead called: Freya

Winemaker: Micheal Magnini
Philosophy: Traditional mead as a modern art



Mercator.

Muir Murray Estate Winery

Winery Lane (Off Dyke Road)
Wolfville, NS


 

Located just east of the town of Wolfville, Nova Scotia and adjacent to the Grand-Pré National Historic Site, the vineyards are situated on a bluff overlooking the historic Acadian dykelands.

Carl Sparkes, who was just awarded the 2013 Crystal Tourism Innovator Award by the Tourism Association of Nova Scotia. purchased Muir Murray Estate . He changed the name to Mercator. Mr Sparks company is called Devonian Coast

Muir Murray Estate founded by Dr. Jonathan Murray and Lesley Murray nestled in the heart of the Annapolis Valley in Nova Scotia. They bought the property in 2003 and spent the next six years preparing. The winery boasts one of the highest, south facing vineyards in the province and each of their vineyards has its own micro climate that allows the grapes to ripen fully and mature into wine of outstanding quality. They have 80 acres. The winery features an education centre. Only screw caps are used

Mercator Vineyards won two prestigious award for excellence in Nova Scotia wines from the Lt. Governor 2021. They won for 2010 Fortified Castel and NV Passito Muscat.

 

Signature wine is Murray's Reserve- L'acadie Blanc


Philosophy: Quality




Muwin Estate Winery Ltd


7153 Highway 12
New Ross, NS


This fruit and cider winery is owned by Dominic Rivard and Germain Bergeron. Dominic is an an internationally-renowned and award-winning wine master, recognized as a specialist in fruit wine, dessert wine, and ice wine production. Born in the province of Quebec, Canada in 1971, he comes from a rich heritage of farmers and entrepreneurs whose rich ancestry can be traced back to the cider producing regions of Normandy, France.

The wineries name comes from the word mi'k maq for black bear. The bear is their symbol in Asia where their wines are primarily exported. In Nova Scotia the fruits wines are sold under the Red Barn label. BULWARK ‘Original' is a hand crafted Cider that tastes like a traditional English Cider.

signature wines: Bulwark Traditional Craft Cider and Northern Compass Iced Apple. Cassis Mistelle is their fortified Blackcurrant wine.

Products can be found in Japan, Netherlands, Nigeria, Taiwan, China, Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, and California

They also own Bulwark Traditional Cider

Winemaker: Dominic Rivard
Philosophy: the quality and aromatics of Nova Scotia fruit in award winning wines and ciders



Pictou Island Vineyards

One Wharf Road
Pictou Island

Pictou Island Winery


Pictou Island is  located in the Northumberland Strait approximately 4 NM north of Nova Scotia and 10 NM south of Prince Edward Island. Pictou Island was settled in the early 1800s by Irish and Scottish immigrants, a hard-working, independent people who survived by farming and fishing. 


Lorne Matheson owns a small 3/4 acre vineyard (about 15 years old) on Pictou Island producing amount of red and white wine for our friends and family. The island's clay soil, when properly drained, produces vibrant plants with very expressive and uniquely tasting fruit.

The red vines are the Marechal Foch and the white L'Acadie Blanc.

In 1999 I purchased the land that my great great grandfather first purchased in 1863. In 2001 I planted my first grape vines, a gift from Enrico Allece. They died. Two years later I planted Marechal Foch vines from Jost Vineyard stock. The rabbits ate them. I persevered. By 2009 I harvested my first grapes and made a few bottles of bitter wine. Thus began the learning process. We now have over half an acre of vines with L'Acadie Blanc, Baco Noir, and the newest planting: Marquette alongside the many mature Marechal Foch vines. A mountain is built one rock at a time. In time we will have fine wine.

 



Planters Ridge

1441 Church Street
Port Williams
Nova Scotia


Planters Ridge Winery opened in 2013 after two successful harvests.  The name Planters Ridge was selected to reflect the history of the land the winery is situated on.  The land is part of the original New England Planters Land Grant from 1760, offered by the Lieutenant Governor after the Acadian expulsion.  In 2010, owners John McLarty and Lisa Law purchased the property from a seventh generation Woodworth family, who were original New England Planters.

The winery is housed in a newly renovated 155 year-old heritage timber framed barn that combines historical features with some modern flourishes.  The vineyard is planted on the sandy-clay slopes of a ridge overlooking the pastoral Union Dyke and Wellington Dyke, with views of Cape Blomidon and the Minas Basin at high tide.  The rich pastoral setting that embodies our unique microclimate, is bordered in the north by the basalt and granite of the North Mountain that rises from the shores of the Bay of Fundy. To the south, we are sheltered from the cooler air of the Atlantic Ocean by South Mountain and Wolfville Ridge.

Boasting estate grown L'Acadie blanc, Frontenac gris, New York Muscat, Riesling, Marquette, Luci Kuhlman and Castel, Planters Ridge is focusing on producing premium level red and white wine blends. They also produce mead.

The focus is on blends


Winemaker: Team approach lead by wine consultant Natalie Spykowsky.


Philosophy: Planters Ridge believes in the concept of vineyard enology.  Simply put, that wine is made in the vineyard.  This concept guides their actions in the cellar as well, and they strive to use techniques that enhance the desired characteristics in the finished wines without diminishing the expression of their unique terrior. 





Petite Riviere Vineyard

1300 Italy Cross Road
Crouston, NS


 

Petite Riviere Vineyards a boutique winery was started in 1994, named after the Petite Riviere, the river that flows through the heart of the LaHave River Valley Wine Region. It is located in South Shore of Nova Scotia, just south of Bridgewater & Lunenburg. The original owner Phillip Wambolt chose this site because of the unique soil here left behind from the glaciers, known as the Bridgewater loam, which he researched as being the best for red wine vines. Today the winery is owned by Sean Sears and Barbara Thomson, Carol Slack-Wamboldt.

It was by chance that Sean Sears and his wife Barbara Thomson happened upon the Petite Riviere Vineyard in Lunenburg County.

“We had a car accident and we both had suffered concussions,” recalled Sears in a recent interview. “When we were recovering, we discovered working outside was much easier on the head than trying to work inside all the time. Barbara was a designer, and I was in software and we didn’t know if we could go back to those careers so we said let’s go find ourselves a farm. We wanted to be on the South Shore. It’s a common place of love for us. We ended up finding this winery for sale in Petite Riviere, which we had never heard of, and then just feel in love with it . . . that’s how it started.”

Petite has two vineyards; one built on a classic drumlin hillside, the other is situated next to the winery with its easily visible rocky soil. The unique terroir of the LaHave River Valley Wine Region is based on the sedimentary soil and rocks left behind by the last glaciers. These soils are ideal for growing red grapes and 80% of Petite vineyards are planted with red varietals.

The vineyards experience the constant coastal breeze of Nova Scotia's South Shore (that is the Gulf Current coming ashore) that evaporates moisture keeping the vines safe from disease. The grapes thrive on the long warm days of Nova Scotia's “Banana Belt” and cool nights fed by the nearby oceans. The small amount of early spring fog lessens the fear of a late frost as the LaHave River Islands, which push out some 10 miles into the ocean, create a fog and frost wall protecting the vineyards, and extending the ripening time of the grapes.

Barbara Thomson a designer, RHN (Registered Holistic Nutritionist), Sommelier, is their winemaker. The winery has 13 acres producing 2500-3000 cases

In 2015, world class winemaker Christian Perlat from Burgundy, France, joined the Petite Riviere family

They also produce Sid's ciders.

signature wines
Whites- Sur Lie, NS appellation Tidal Bay, Risser’s Breeze, White Coyote
Rose- Lulu , Muscat Love
Reds- Terres Rocheaux (phillip’s blend), Two Rivers, Silk Sheets, LaHave, Kissing Brook, Italy


Philosophy: creating wines that are true to the fruit & the terroir.
Leaning more to the Old World style wines (especially reds, which we are most well known for)
and incorporating New World techniques for safe & healthy wines. Our wines are often blends of our select grapes, made in a Bordeaux style wine. We make wines that are distinct & true to the
terroir- wines that come from ‘somewhere’ not just anywhere



Lost Bell

Ste. Famille Wines LTD

9 Dudley Park Lane
Falmouth, NS BOP 1LO

 

Name changed June 2023 to Lost Bell.

Alex Rice decided on the name Lost Bell after the winemaker, Tony Barkhouse, told him the story that the Acadians of the Sainte-Famille parish hid the church bell from the British before the Expulsion and it was never found.

Located in the Avon River Valley the gateway to the Annapolis Valley. The Sainte-Famille Winery tasting room is located in Falmouth just outside of Windsor. The winery sits on a south facing slope over looking the valley. Owned and operated by Suzanne and Doug Corkum. The winery takes it's name from the land on which they built. In 1680 the Acadian village known as la Paroisee Sainte Famille was founded here. Ste. Femille first planted their vineyard in 1979.

In June of 1990 they opened the doors to Sainte Famille Wines. Suzanne became the first female winemaker in Nova Scotia and helped pave the way for what is now a booming wine industry.

Founder Suzanne Corkum is gradually turning the operation over to daughter Tracy Lake and granddaughter Lauren Lake, and the trio’s current venture is exporting blueberry wine to China.

In 2021, March, the winery sold to Alex Rice.





Tideview Cidery

Noggins Corner Farm
10009 Highway 1
Wolfville, NS B3P 1P4


Tideview Vintage Cider is handcrafted in the Annapolis Valley. We use vintage apple varieties that are grown by Noggins Corner Farm in Greenwich. The owners are John Brett and Andrew Bishop - Orchardist. They have200 acres of orchards.  They use the older cider varieties such as Golden Russet, Ribston Pippin, Cox Orange Pippin, Biship Pippin, Baldwin, King, and Northern Spy.

Tideview Cider has been producing quality Ciders for sale since 2005. Noggins Corner Farm has been producing apples and other Orchard fruits for many generations. The farm itself dates back to a land grant of 1760, to the Bishop family.

Tideview Heritage Semi Dry cider listed in writer Pete Brown's World's Best Ciders

Signature Ciders are Heritage SemiDry and Heritage Dry

Cider Master: John Brett
Philosophy: Tideview Ciders are premium, handcrafted ciders made from heirloom apples grown in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia. They taste great, look great in the glass, yet are very affordable, open to everyone. Perfect for celebrating the simple pleasures that make life worth living.



Williamsdale Winery

RR#1, Williamsdale
Nova Scotia

 


Established in 1987 and specializes in producing wines from the wild blueberries that are grown on the estate The winery is the first in Canada to produce sparkling wines from blueberries grown in northern Nova Scotia.



Rines Creek Vineyard

Shubenacadie
Nova Scotia


Opening in 2014 the winery is owned by John Eikelenboom and his wife Colleen.

They installed two propane powered Turbines to help protect the grapes. The turbines move and mix the inverted layers of cold and warm air within six hectares. The system can alter the temperature around the grapes by as much as five degrees.

See 1365 Church Street Vineyard

 

For a good reason Nova Scotia is known as Canada's Ocean Playground. For many Nova Scotian the sea is main part of their lives - either to make a living or for recreation. The coastline stretches for 7,400 kilometers and is indented by thousands of bays and inlets. The coast is dotted by more than 3,800 islands. Due to the influence of the sea the climate is mild, summers are comfortable and fall is pleasant.

There are many things to do in Nova Scotia. Parks, hiking trails, lakes, streams, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries are a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Sailing, cycling, river rafting, kayaking and canoing to name just a few activities the province of Nova Scotia has to offer. This is completed by entertainment, culture, historic sites and of course fine dining. The Highlands National Park contains one of the world's most spectacular driving route. Kejimkujik National Park is a true jewel for outdoor friends. Explore the many lakes and islands on a canoe tour and camp on uninhabited islands. White sandy beaches can be found on the eastern shore. Visit world famous Peggy's Cove lighthouse, a remnant of early days. Enjoy the world's highest tides on the Bay of Fundy. Golfers will fall in love with this province as they will find some of the most beautiful and challenging courses, such as the Highland Links course in Cape Breton or Digby Pines in Digby.

Nova Scotia in Figures

The province of Nova Scotia covers an area of 55,000 sq km. The mainland part of the province is connected to New Brunswick and the remainder of Canada by the 28 km Isthmus of Chignecto. Cape Breton Island is joined to the mainland by the Canso Causeway. Halifax, the capital city is located south of Paris. The coastline stretches for 7,400 km, but the overall length of the province is only 575 km, while the average width is 130 km.

In 1998 934,587 people called Nova Scotia their home. This is about 3.1 per cent of the total Canadian population.

Nova Scotia's largest city is Halifax with 117,381 habitants followed by Dartmouth (66,722) and Bedford (14,950).

The province's capital is Halifax.

Nova Scotia features more than 5,400 lakes

Nova Scotia's highest elevation is 554 m (1,800 ft) in the Cape Breton Highlands

Many of the Micmac people remain on their original lands in Cape Breton. In other areas, French culture and language live on. The majority (approx. 75 per cent) of the province's people are of English, Scottish and Irish decent. In a few places you can still hear Gaelic spoken.

The Bay of Fundy ebbs and flows as much as 20 metre's each day.

Nova Scotia Wine Standards


- 1611 Louis Hébert, the apothecary at The Habitation in Port Royal, planted the first European grapevines in Bear River.
- 1632-34 Monsieur Issac de Razilly at Fort-Ste.-Marie-de-Grâce, nowadays La Have, experimented with vines as well.
- 1700-1800’s American grapevines were cultivated at Annapolis valley for fresh consumption.
- 1883 Fruit growers’ association of Nova Scotia growth grapes on Annapolis Valley and reported that ‘the length of the season is not sufficient’. � Delaware (V. labrusca), Concord (V. labrusca) and Royal Muscadine (V. rotundifolia) some of the grapes grown at that time.
- 1913 Kentville Research Development Centre (KRDC) from AAFC installed in the Annapolis valley and started field trials with more than 100 cultivars.
- 1930 Starts the wine fruit production in the Annapolis valley.
- 1962 the cultivar V-53261 gave good results, which will be lately called #L’Acadie blanc.
- 1980’s Roger Dial, Hans Wilhem Jost and Walter Wuhrer started the first commercial vineyards
- 1982 birth of Grape Growers of Nova Scotia. - 1990’s grape growers planted Vitis vinifera in different areas obtaining positive results. - 2002 birth of Wine Association of Nova Scotia.
- 2012 Officially launched Tidal bay.
- 2023 Around 20 wineries and more than 500 hectares throughout Nova Scotia.

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