The Grape Escape: Dream Now and Travel Later
A blossoming wine industry, Nova Scotia has dozens of vineyards. Never more than 20km from the ocean, these vineyards are some of the worlds prettiest. Wine tasting experiences and vineyard tours, means it has never been easier (or more fun) to immerse yourself in the province’s long and fascinating tradition of growing grapes. The province even has its own signature wine, Tidal Bay, the first appellation for Nova Scotia, and an aromatic white ideal for pairing with the province’s seafood delicacies. And so, from crisp glasses of white coupled with Nova Scotian lobster dishes, sparkling wines grown in ancient soils, to winter harvested ice-wines, we’ve rounded up the province’s most spectacular vineyards, as well as one of the ways to enjoy a taste of a Nova Scotian summer while borders are still closed.
Gaspereau Valley
The Gaspereau Valley is home to three vineyards in the Annapolis Valley region of Nova Scotia, which is Canada’s third largest wine region. On top of being one of the most beautiful corners of Nova Scotia, the ice-age soil and the coastal climates are being credited as the reason for so many new and emerging wineries. The Annapolis Valley is known for beautiful farms and orchards, from apple blossoms in spring, lush green vineyards in the summer, to magnificent autumn colours, the valley is a must-visit part of a Nova Scotia adventure.
We Love: Benjamin Bridge
www.novascotia.com/eat-drink/taste/benjamin-bridge-vineyards/6454
The Benjamin Bridge vineyards are located in the heart of the Gaspereau Valley which is not far from Nova Scotia’s beautiful Bay of Fundy, where the cool climate bears an uncanny likeness with the Champagne region of France. Over two short decades, Benjamin Bridge has distinguished itself as Canada’s premier sparkling wine house and is a must visit for wine lovers exploring Nova Scotia. The vineyard has just added a brand-new tasting room to the on-location experiences, and with guided tastings ranging from introductory to a full afternoon with the head winemaker, no matter the selection, each guest leaves with new knowledge, expertise and most likely a few bottles for delicious souvenirs. Not only does Benjamin Bridge offer the perfect crisp tipple for a summer afternoon, but their ice wines, harvested in winter, offer some of the vineyard’s most expressive bouquets (think tangerine, honey, and apple pie). Benjamin Bridge is stocked in the UK, so while borders are still closed, why not head to FriarWood for a taste of Nova Scotian Summer in a glass. Bottles start from £33.25.
We Love: Luckett Vineyards
www.novascotia.com/eat-drink/taste/luckett-vineyards/2603
Crisp maritime breezes, legendary ocean tides and brilliant sunshine meet to create an outstanding terroir on a hillside overlooking the magnificent Gaspereau Valley. Owned by a British vintner, Luckett Vineyards captures the magic of Nova Scotia’s distinctive character through delicious wines. The Crush Pad Bistro is also a destination in itself, with seasonal sharing boards and excellent seafood dishes for a truly Nova Scotian dining experience. Make sure you keep an eye out for the famous red telephone box that can be found nestled amongst the vines; a nod to the owner’s English roots and a perfect spot for some Instagram worthy shots.
Bay of Fundy
We Love: Avondale Sky Winery
www.novascotia.com/eat-drink/taste/avondale-sky-winery/2602
One of the oldest vineyards in Nova Scotia, Avondale Sky Winery is tucked away near the western end of the Avon Peninsula, protected by the surrounding rivers. Featuring a charming farm, vineyards, and an award-winning restaurant, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring the winery, in between delicious sips. The wine tasting takes place in an old wooden church, complete with stained-glass windows and vaulted ceilings, which was repurposed after it was floated by ferry on a 42-kilometre journey rising and falling with the Basin’s mighty 43-foot tides. This is just one example of the founder’s dedication to recycling and repurposing in their commitment to sustainability. For those making an occasion out of their visit, Mosher House is the vineyard’s exclusive restaurant: an 19th century farmhouse where four courses of seasonal and local delicacies are thoughtfully created by Head Chef, Brent Coutinho.
Port Williams
Port Williams is a Canadian village in Kings County, Nova Scotia and also located in the lush Annapolis Valley. One of the most bountiful areas in the province, summer and fall are bursting with strawberries, blueberries, apples, raspberries all ripe for the picking. The area is also popular with collectors and offers a host of antique shops and vintage stores.
We Love: 1365 Church Street Vineyard & Winery
www.winesofnovascotia.ca/portfolio/1365-church-street-vineyard-winery/
This 13-acre vineyard is the newest addition to the Nova Scotia winery family and has breath-taking views of the Wellington Dyke, North Mountain and Cape Blomidon, and the entire property is nestled in vines. There is a climate-controlled barrel cellar room where their red wines are aged for at least 3-5 years. It took passion and dedication to turn 1365 Church Street from a barley field to a beautiful mature vineyard within just five short years, and the vineyard is a labour of love between two lifelong friends who share a passion for winemaking. The location is simply stunning and offers both spectacular sunrises and sunsets; we suggest trying a glass of their signature Tidal Bay when enjoying the latter.