This story was updated in June 2023. It was first published June 20, 2022.
Nova Scotia is becoming one of Canada’s winery hotspots thanks to its climate of warm days and cool nights. So why not put the province's vineyards to the test and embark on your very own wine tour this summer?
Whether you're looking to find the perfect wine to enjoy in the evenings or just want to book a wine-and-dine experience with friends, here are some must-visit wineries in Nova Scotia.
Lightfoot and Wolfville Vineyards
This 40-acre property is situated in the Annapolis Valley and offers a variety of tasting experiences while you enjoy its beautiful view. There’s also a restaurant on the property that garners most of its ingredients from crops grown on the land. Want to check out what you're in for before visiting the vineyard? Its website offers a comprehensive virtual tour.
Location: 11143 Evangeline Trail, Wolfville.
Luckett Vineyards
Located on the Gaspereau Valley, Luckett Vineyards offers different packages depending on your needs. From wine tasting to dining in its onsite restaurant all the way to its multi-course wine and dine experience (minimum party of 12), Luckett isn’t lacking. Make sure to try its Rockrose Spritzers made with locally grown grapes!
Location: 1293 Grand Pré Road, Wolfville
1365 Church Street Vineyards & Winery
This winery prides itself on almost 15 acres of land filled with perfect Instgrammable moments, whether it comes from the view of Wellington Dyke or the picturesque bicycles and flower gardens scattered around the property. 1365 Church offers a variety of selections when it comes to wine and boasts a cozy experience for its guests dropping by for a tasting.
Location: 1365 Church Street, Port Williams
Avondale Sky Winery
The Avondale Sky winery has a piece of Nova Scotian history in its vineyard. Instead of building new, when the previous owners discovered that St. Matthew's church (formerly in Walton) was slated for destruction, they bought it and moved to the property. Under new ownership (as of 2019), Avondale Sky has a phenomenal restaurant featuring local food, and the winery has tastings and a summertime weekend market on site. Their collection of delectable wines includes the amusingly named Notorious RED.
Location: 80 Avondale Cross Road
Mercator Vineyards
Mercator Vineyards features old-world style wines and offers guests a more classic wine tasting experience. This winery overlooks the Acadian Dykelands, and before settling in at the bar you can rent a bicycle and ride the trail to the view of the sunset over the Bay of Fundy.
Location: 88 Dyke Road, Wolfville
L’Acadie Vineyards
L’Acadie Vineyards boasts an all-organic and sustainable winery, Nova Scotia’s first, and offers tastings and vineyard tours by appointment. If you enjoy your experience at L’Acadie, you can join one of its wine clubs and receive shipments of your favourite wines straight to your door.
Location: 310 Slayter Road, Gaspereau
Bear River Vineyards
Vineyards have been thriving in Bear River since 1611, and the founder of Bear River Vineyards recognized it was because of the perfect microclimate in the area. It offers tastings every day until Thanksgiving. For larger groups, private rooms and tables are available by reservation. Want to make it a getaway? This winery even offers a guest suite for those looking to explore not just the Vineyard, but the Bear River area.
Location: 133 Chute Road, Bear River
Magic Winery Bus
If you’re looking for a more guided experience you can check out the Magic Winery Bus, where you’ll spend the day exploring Benjamin Bridge, Domaine de Grand Pre, Luckett Vineyards and L’Acadie Vineyards in the Annapolis Valley. The double-decker bus departs from Wolfville and includes two wine tasting sessions, and lunch.
Updated with files from Matt Stickland
