Tidal Bay: Nova Scotia’s Signature White Wine
Described as the very essence of Nova Scotia in a glass, it is cool, crisp, lively and aromatic. The perfect pairing for our local seafood, or for socializing with friends.
Every wine region hopes to have wines that stand out and get recognized for defining what they do best. In Nova Scotia, our wines have consistently been known for their fresh, firm, and bright style. With this in mind, Nova Scotia developed a signature wine that revealed these characteristics, and so began Tidal Bay. A wine with Nova Scotian character, Tidal Bay brilliantly reflects the terroir, coastal breezes, and cooler climate of its birthplace.
Officially launched in June 2012, Tidal Bay is the first wine appellation for Nova Scotia and one-of-a-kind for North America. A racy, aromatic white wine, it displays the Nova Scotian characteristics of our cool climate region and pairs flawlessly with the local seafood we’re known for. The name Tidal Bay was inspired by the influence of the sea and being home to the biggest Tidal changes in the world.
Although all Tidal Bay wines must follow the same set of standards, each wine is slightly different from one another, and wineries are able to express their individuality.
Standards
To obtain the Tidal Bay designation, all wines must be made from specific grape varieties, include 100% Nova Scotia-grown grapes, follow a strict set of standards, and be approved every year by an independent blind tasting panel.
These standards were created by a committee of winemakers, sommeliers, and wine experts and are strictly enforced throughout the winemaking process, from growing to bottling.
Wines can be a combination of the approved grape varieties but must demonstrate the distinctive taste profile that reflects the classic Nova Scotian style: lively fresh green fruit, dynamic acidity, and characteristic minerality. Tidal Bay wines must also be relatively low in alcohol and no more than 11%.
Virtual Tidal Bay Wine Tasting
Taste and explore the 2019 Tidal Bay vintage at home with our virtual tasting experience! Each of the winery’s respective winemakers will be providing tasting notes, pairing suggestions and much more.
12 Tides Release & Tasting Event
With recent government guidance on hosting large events, the Winery Association of Nova Scotia is taking the proactive step of rethinking our much-anticipated Tidal Bay celebration in May. While the 12Tides event scheduled for Friday, May 8th at the Halifax Marriott will regrettably not proceed, our industry is working together to come up with an exciting new concept that will focus on Nova Scotia’s wine country and involve a safe celebration of the 2019 vintage at a later date. We look forward to sharing more details in the coming weeks.