News release

Province Confirms No Levy on U-Vint Wine

Finance and Treasury Board

The government has taken another step toward legalizing u-vint and u-brew operations in Nova Scotia.

"After reviewing the feedback, I am confirming that a levy on wine brewed at u-vints is not the right move for Nova Scotia," Diana Whalen, Minister of Finance and Treasury Board, said today, Feb. 14. "As I have said, we want to reduce barriers for small business and make it easier from them to grow and hire in communities across the province."

In January, the province asked for input on regulations for the industry. The P.E.I. model was used as an example of the most recent regulations to start discussions.

Consultations on regulations and standards for ferment-on-premises businesses closed earlier this week.

"Unequivocally, Minister Whalen has supported us since 2006," said Ross Harrington, owner of Wine Kitz in Halifax. "She understands the need to help small business grow and has kept her promise to get rid of red tape."

The province will continue to work with concerned groups to draft legislation that supports growth in the promising industry. Legislation is expected to be introduced this spring.