A Guide To Nova Scotias Wineries

When most people think of wine in Canada, they instantly think of BC’s Okanagan or Ontario’s Niagara Region. But over the past few years, Nova Scotia has built itself a reputation as one of the premier wine destinations in the country. A trip to the province isn’t complete without a visit to at least one of its award-winning vineyards.

There is a concentration of vineyards and wineries in the Annapolis Valley, and you can easily spend a day driving, biking, or walking from vineyard to vineyard. There are also a number of tour companies that organize great wine tours, so sign up and discover all that the province has to offer.

Jost Vineyards

Situated along the Northumberland Shore, just outside of Tatamagouche, Jost is the largest and oldest winery operating in the province. A visit to the multi-award-winning Jost can be a full-day event—enjoy tastings, tours, delicious meals at their Seagrape Café, a hike or bike through the vines, and monthly events and activities.

Luckett Vineyards

Wine Bar, Restaurant, Bar, Wine, Beer, Cocktails, Pub Grub, Canadian

Located in the Annapolis Valley, Luckett Vineyards offers daily tastings and tours, a delicious restaurant, and beautiful views of the vineyard and the Bay of Fundy. Don’t miss the on-site working British phone booth located in the middle of the vineyard.

Benjamin Bridge Vineyards

If you love sparkling wines, you need to visit Benjamin Bridge. And if you don’t, you still need to visit because this vineyard may just change your mind! Canada’s most renowned wine authority, Tony Aspler, says about their wines, “They are, without question, the best sparkling wines I have tasted in Canada.” While every wine is worth sampling, their Nova 7 is a perennial sellout, and we almost guarantee you’ll be leaving with as many bottles as you can carry.

Domaine de Grand Pré

Winery

Domaine de Grand Pré prides itself on growing grapes that are perfectly suited to the Nova Scotia region, and this has won them numerous awards around Canada and the world for their vintage wines. Don’t leave without a meal at their Le Caveau Restaurant, named one of the World’s Best Winery Restaurants by Wine Access Magazine.

Gaspereau Vineyards

Winery

Another Annapolis Valley gem, Gaspereau lies just outside of Wolfville and is a charming vineyard known for its Rieslings, elegant whites, and robust reds. Stop by for a tasting, a tour, and a tasty charcuterie pairing.

Petite Rivière Vineyards

The unique microclimate of the LaHave River Valley region provides ideal growing conditions, and Petite Rivière sits on one of the oldest growing areas in North America. This idyllic French-inspired vineyard will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into Provence, and in addition to offering delicious tastings and history-rich tours, you can also enjoy picnics in the vineyard, stunning views, and summer concert series.

Blomidon Estate Winery

Winery

Another Annapolis Valley favorite, Blomidon sits on the Minas Basin and offers visitors stunning seaside views, award-winning wines, tastings, and tours. Stay for a seat on their patio, and enjoy your wine with a charcuterie and cheese plate.

Avondale Sky Winery

Picturesque is the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Avondale. Their winery is set in a reconstructed barn; their retail space is a reclaimed church built in the 1800s, and they sit amongst the rolling hills of the Avondale Peninsula in the Annapolis Valley. The wines are pretty amazing too. Named Winery of the Year by Atlantic Canadian Wine Awards in 2015 and 2016, they offer a wonderful selection of white, red, rosé, and dessert wine.

About the author

Kate Horodyski

Kate is a freelance lifestyle and travel writer based in Halifax, Canada. You can find her online at katehorodyski.com and on Instagram @katehorodyski.