We’ve rebranded to Wine Growers Nova Scotia, and here’s why!
When the Winery Association of Nova Scotia was formed in 2002, it’s mission was to build awareness of the Wines of Nova Scotia brand, serve as a voice for wineries, and work closely with all government levels to grow the industry. Fast forward 18 years, and the wine industry has grown significantly across the province. Nova Scotia now has over 18 wineries in seven wine regions, producing over 1.74 million litres of wine a year!
Simon Rafuse, Winemaker at Blomidon Estate Winery, welcomes the change, “the transition to Wine Growers NS brings into focus the connection to our land. We’re not just winemakers; we’re grape farmers first and foremost. As our industry continues to grow, this important change recognizes the work that goes into making our Nova Scotian wines from vine to glass.”
Our new name, Wine Growers Nova Scotia, better highlights who we represent: the hard-working farmers and vintners of the industry. The wine industry at its core is agricultural and it’s important to have that as a part of our foundation as an association. From planting to pruning, harvesting to crushing and bottling, passionate farmers across the province take pride in producing award-winning wines. Local vintners and farmers have helped build an industry that significantly contributes to our province.
Michael Lightfoot, co-owner of Lightfoot & Wolfville is embracing the new name, “if great wines are made in the vineyard, then the recent, long-overdue change in our industry association name, both nationally and provincially, better exemplifies the true essence of the important work we undertake as winegrowers; growing quality wine in the vineyard as farmers.”
Wine Growers Nova Scotia truly represents the roots in the ground industry that is the wine industry.
“We are, in the purest sense, a value-added agriculture industry if there ever was one. Growing grapes on a farm by farmers, making and exporting wine, and inviting tourists to our properties in rural Nova Scotia”, says Lightfoot.
We create good quality jobs in rural and urban Nova Scotia; our wineries and wine regions are world-class tourism destinations that ultimately contribute to a growing and diverse economy.
“We truly are growing Nova Scotia. With every bottle of Nova Scotia wine sold, we are directly contributing to the growth of the economy. With every celebration and occasion, our products are chosen to accompany; we are growing awareness that we truly have a world-class industry we should all be proud of”, Lightfoot adds.
By changing our name, we align with Wine Growers Canada and other wine regions across the country. Together, we have a strong, unified voice to build opportunities for the entire Canadian wine industry.