Overview
The Annapolis Valley cuts across the western half of Nova Scotia, sheltered from the Atlantic by the North Mountain ridge. The Bay of Fundy moderates temperatures and extends the growing season, while the cool maritime climate preserves acidity in the grapes, making the valley especially suited to sparkling wine production.
The town of Wolfville serves as the valley's wine hub, home to Benjamin Bridge, Lightfoot & Wolfville, and L'Acadie Vineyards. The region has built its reputation on traditional-method sparkling wines, along with crisp whites made from L'Acadie Blanc, Seyval Blanc, Chardonnay, and Riesling, and cool-climate Pinot Noir.
Key Varietals
- L'Acadie BlancA Nova Scotia hybrid that produces crisp, citrusy still and sparkling wines.
- ChardonnayA cool-climate white used for elegant sparkling wines and mineral still bottlings.
- Pinot NoirA light, red-fruit red used for still wine and sparkling rosé.
- RieslingA high-acid aromatic white that thrives in the valley's cool maritime climate.
Region snapshot
Climate
Cool maritime moderated by the Bay of Fundy
Rainfall
900-1,100mm annually
Soil Types
Glacial till, sandstone, and clay loam