Nova Scotia may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of wine, but it is actually Canada's oldest wine region. The first vines in Nova Scotia were planted along the shores of Bear River in 1611, not far from what would become the centre of the NS wine industry - the Annapolis Valley. While it would be a few hundred years before Nova Scotia wines truly arrived on the scene, they are now firmly established and gaining international recognition.
The first commercial wine in the province was produced all the way back in 1980. However, in the years that followed, growth in the industry was slow. By 2000, there were still only four wineries in the province.
But things have changed dramatically since then. The industry has exploded, and there are now 19 grape and 6 fruit wineries across Nova Scotia’s seven wine growing regions. The most concentrated of these is the Annapolis Valley. This picturesque area is renowned for its beautiful scenery and mild climate, which create the perfect conditions for growing grapes.
Nova Scotia may not be as established as Napa Valley or Bordeaux, but Nova Scotia wine is becoming increasingly popular around the world, and it's no wonder why. The province's award-winning white wines are gaining a real following across Canada and around the world, and its sparkling wines are also gaining a reputation for being top-notch. Not only are the wines making an impact, the wineries themselves have become popular destinations. No visit to Nova Scotia is complete without a tour of Nova Scotia’s wineries. Wine tours are a great way to sample the province's finest vintages, and many wineries offer visitors the opportunity to tour their facilities and learn about the winemaking process.
So whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a weekend wine warrior, there is a Nova Scotia wine perfect for you! Find your favourite while exploring this booming wine destination - it is definitely worth a visit. Cheers!
