Invest in Nova Scotia Wines

A Managed Plan for Growth

Wine sales in Nova Scotia have been growing steadily over the past seven years with every indication that this trend will continue. The majority of wine consumed here is imported. This presents local producers with an opportunity to gain market share on two fronts. They can capitalize on the increase in overall wine consumption and encourage a move to greater local product purchasing.

We are looking for new investors to become part of our local industry. Successful vintners and grape growers advise that the best approach to the business is incremental growth together with an clear understanding of the process. With that in mind, Nova Scotia has developed a strategy for a sustainable and integrated industry as part of a long term provincial plan.

Five key geographic areas have been identified which offer the most favourable grape growing conditions. They are: the Annapolis Valley, Bear River Valley, LaHave River Valley, the Malagash Penninsula and Marble Mountain in Cape Breton. Winegrowers caution newcomers that soil tests and investigating the local microclimate, even within the designated regions, is essential to develop a solid understanding of an area's potential.

The wine industry's long term growth strategy goals:

• Increase the vineyard acreage from 400 to 1,000 acres;
• Increase the number of wineries from 10 to 20;
• Increase wine production from 751,000 litres to 2.5 million litres of wine annually;
• Increase industry revenues from $7.2 million to $23 million

It takes a concerted, collaborative effort to enhance local wine quality, encourage research and development, improve distribution channels, develop customized training programs and build strong strategic partnerships. That work is underway. For more information, contact the Winery Association of Nova Scotia.

A Snapshot of Nova Scotia's Wine Industry Today

Click the video below to listen to Janice Ruddock, Managing Director of the Winery Association of Nova Scotia, discuss some of the key factors that contribute to success in the Nova Scotia wine industry.

Video courtesy the Acadia International Executive Insight Series and Acadia University