New Regulations for Nova Scotia Wine Industry

The province is helping Nova Scotia's wine industry grow.

Agriculture Minister John MacDonell announced new regulations today, Nov. 17, that will encourage and support the continued growth of this rural-based agricultural sector.

"Nova Scotians can be proud of the fact that our wines continue to win national and international awards and recognition," said Mr. MacDonell. "These regulations will advance the industry another step and will assure consumers that Nova Scotia wines meet the highest standards and quality, allowing the industry to continue to create good jobs and grow the economy."

The regulations establish a minimum Nova Scotia content of 85 per cent for grape wines and 100 per cent content for non-grape wines such as blueberry and maple.

The regulations also include administrative structures and requirements such as winery registration and designation, acreage certification, record keeping, and cellar audits.

"It is a very exciting growth period for the wine industry in Nova Scotia and the implementation of these regulations will ensure our unique and distinctive wines will be produced to the highest quality standards," said Janice Ruddock, managing director of the Winery Association of Nova Scotia.

The Department of Agriculture worked with the industry, including the Winery Association of Nova Scotia, individual wineries, Grape Growers Association of Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation, to develop the regulations. They reflect the current Nova Scotia Farm Winery Policy and Nova Scotia Wine Standards used by the industry.

The Nova Scotia industry, valued at $10 million, has 17 farm wineries, with another one in development, and 30 grape growers operating vineyards. There are also about 475 acres of land in grape production.