by Ruza Modra

Created on: August 14, 2009   Last Updated: September 01, 2009

Nova Scotia, located in Canada's Atlantic region, is home to one of Canada's best kept secrets. Award winning wines are being produced by the caseload, just under the radar of many wine consumers. But as this region gains in popularity, it is only a matter of time before Nova Scotia becomes the Napa Valley of Canada's Maritimes.

Wines in Nova Scotia?

Nova Scotians brag that making wine is nothing new, and claim to have started as early as the 1600s. But these humble beginnings were largely for simple in-home brewing purposes. The new wineries recognized by today's fans have a much more recent history. For only the past 25 years, the bravest and the most innovative have cultivated a whole new Nova Scotia phenomenon. Sadly these wines are not widely available outside of the province but for the intrepid wine traveler, it is well worth the trip to Nova Scotia. In between the lobster dinners and historical sites, a trip to a winery is a must.

Can they really grow grapes here?

Nova Scotia shares the same weather as the New England region and has the same long wet winters and cool summers. Yet this area is home to 10 fascinating wineries that capture the charm and ingenuity of the Maritimes. Most wineries are now open to the public for tours and tastings. Wine makers cultivate a variety of cool climate grapes hardy enough to withstand the challenging growing conditions. The Annapolis Valley, Malagash Peninsula, and LaHave River Valley are particularly noted as Nova Scotia's premier wine regions.

L'Acadie Vineyards - Gaspereau, Nova Scotia

Sparkling wine is not their only offering but it is their specialty. The 2007 L'Acadie Star took home double gold medals and best of category awards in 2008 All Canadian Wine Championships. This popular wine sells out quickly! Try the 2006 Alchemy rich red fruit flavors reminiscent of Old World wines.

Bear River Vineyards - Bear River, Nova Scotia

Black Fly Pinot Noir is oak aged and full bodied. The Greater Yellow Legs Chardonnay is a steady favorite with crisp apple notes.

Blomindon Estate Winery - Canning, Nova Scotia

The wines are as beautiful as the scenery and perhaps that is why they are found in Nova Scotia liquor stores and Canadian Embassies around the world! The Luci Kuhlmann red is a rich wine full of incredible fruit flavors and a smooth finish. Rose is making a comeback, and the Blomindon Rose blends Muscat and Baco Noir into a perfect summer sipper with just a hint of sweetness.

Domaine de Grand Pre - Grand Pre, Nova

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