Bear River Vineyards

The first vines in Nova Scotia were planted along the shores of Bear River in 1611 by French settlers. They recognized the warm and sheltered microclimate unique to Bear River was ideal for grapes. Almost four centuries later the original founder of our vineyard recognized that was still the case and planted vinifera not previously grown in Nova Scotia such as Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Gamay. Today our small vineyard is a mix of these tender varietals growing alongside other vinifera and hardier hybrids.

We invite you to join us at Bear River Vineyards to experience the history that has shaped our beautiful property. The winery is housed in a masterfully renovated bank barn that was built in 1883. The unique four-and-a-half-story design of the barn allows for a primarily gravity-fed winemaking process. The main level of the winery houses the tasting bar and wine shop. From its soaring beamed ceiling to the herringbone slate floor, it is the perfect place to enjoy our 100% estate-grown and -bottled wines while surrounded by understated elegance.

Visitors are welcome to enjoy our outdoor seating area with a view of our vineyards. Planted on the steeply sloped valley walls above Bear River, a tidal estuary that flows into the Annapolis Basin, they overlook the stunning vistas of the valley in a sun-drenched amphitheatre.