News release

Four Nova Scotia Wines Receive Award for Excellence

Lieutenant-Governor

Four wines received the 2019 Lieutenant Governor's Award for Excellence in Nova Scotia Wines at a ceremony at Government House in Halifax today, July 25.

The award, established by former Lt.-Gov. J.J. Grant in 2014, recognizes the exceptional quality of locally sourced and produced wines, and honours the dedication and craft of those in Nova Scotia's wine industry.

Through blind tastings an independent panel of 11 experts chose the following wines as the best among the wines submitted:

  • 2011 Blanc de Noir Extra Brut Reserve from Avondale Sky Winery, Newport Landing, Hants Co.
  • 2011 Brut Réserve from Blomidon Estate Winery, Canning, Kings Co.
  • 2018 Tidal Bay from Jost Vineyards, Malagash, Cumberland Co.
  • 2018 Tidal Bay from Planters Ridge Winery, Port Williams, Kings Co.

"I continue to be very impressed with the quality of the wines that are being produced in Nova Scotia and they are successfully competing on the national stage," said Lt.-Gov. Arthur J. LeBlanc. "I offer my sincere thanks to the wineries who submitted their wines for judging and I extend my congratulations to the winners."

Members of the Winery Association of Nova Scotia and Taste of Nova Scotia were invited to submit up to three commercially available grape wines with 100 per cent Nova Scotia content.

“Nova Scotia has a vibrant wine industry and every year our winemakers continue to innovate and elevate the quality of wines being produced,” said Emily Haynes, executive director of Taste of Nova Scotia. “The Lieutenant Governor’s Awards for Excellence not only gives recognition, but also helps share the story of our wineries, winemakers and grape growers, all committed to improving and promoting excellence in Nova Scotia.

“These awards support and recognize the significant influence and economic contribution that the Nova Scotia wine industry brings to our province.”

“Nova Scotia winemakers continue to win fans and accolades for the quality and distinctiveness of their wines, both at home and around the world”, said Jerry White, executive director of the Winery Association of Nova Scotia. “This award recognizes the great work of our winemakers who produce some of the best wines in Canada that are proudly served to discerning visitors and wine professionals around the world.”

The award ceremony included the presentation of a certificate and gold medal to each winning winery.