Our weather in Nova Scotia is often unpredictable – four seasons in a day, anyone? As much as I enjoy the (mostly) warmer temperatures, I’m still soaking up some incredible adventures I was fortunate to enjoy this past winter and I’m looking forward to visiting all of these locations again, no matter the season.

I love to plan my travel around food and drink experiences. If you’ve followed along for any amount of time or know me in person, I’m sure that comes as no surprise. In particular, I really enjoy and appreciate craft beverages, with a strong affinity for wine. I’m so grateful to live in Nova Scotia where we can easily get outside to enjoy nature, visit local communities and support local businesses along the way.

Note: All public health guidelines regarding COVID-19 in Nova Scotia were followed at the time of each visit/stay/activity. Please keep doing the same, looking out for yourself and each other.

Thanks for coming along on this trip with me. Let’s go!

The goal: Rest, relaxation and a little adventure while enjoying Nova Scotian wines and supporting local businesses.

The plan: One week of winter wine adventures inspired by the Wines of Nova Scotia website, which has great recommendations for wine tours and travel itineraries.

The highlights reel: Breathtaking nature, crisp winter air, fresh fallen snow, delicious wine, yummy local food, quality time with friends, cozy fires, exceptional service, passionate people, pure joy.

Tattingstone Inn, Wolfville

Overview: Tattingstone’s “Sip into the Season” package makes for a lovely time with a friend. A guided tour visiting Annapolis Cider Company, Millstone Harvest Brewhouse and Planters Ridge Winery kept us happily busy for the afternoon.

After our wine, cider and beer tastings, we settled into our cozy room at the inn and enjoyed a lovely surprise: a charcuterie board with two local wines! After some down time, it was off to Troy Mediterranean Restaurant for an outstanding three-course meal and a glass of Grand Pré Wines Tidal Bay. The fresh delicious food transported me far away, to somewhere warm and sunny. Reality struck when we walked back into the cold air but waiting at Tattingstone Inn was our cozy room, a long hot bath and one of the best sleeps I’d had in ages.

In the morning we headed to the dining room for a lovely brunch. A nice added touch: the whipped yogurt parfait with strawberries, yum! We shared the Belgian Waffles and the Loaded Avocado Toast, both were delicious.

Erika and Randy are so warm and friendly, we really enjoyed our time with them. I loved the coziness of this winter experience and it would be great in the summer to enjoy different seasonal flavours while sitting in the sun.

Tip: During your tasting tour, look for unique seasonal offerings beverage makers may have on tap when you visit. Annapolis Cider has a “Something Different” feature, where you get to taste unique flavours and blends with $.50 of every refill going to a local community organization. Sip and support!

Personal faves: Earl Blue from the Annapolis Cider Company – a unique combination of Earl Grey tea and Nova Scotia wild blueberry juice. Raspberry Blossom Cider from Sea Level Brewing – love the fresh raspberry flavour! L-Acadie from Planters Ridge Winery – light and refreshing with citrus notes.

Next time: Tattingstone also offers an incredible, seasonal, locally-sourced Supper Club a few evenings each month. Chef Penner creates a six course tasting menu, showcasing the best of local ingredients and cuisine. I came back to the inn another evening to try this and loved it!

Millstone Harvest Brewhouse (Sea Level Brewing)

Tattingstone Inn charcuterie board paired with Benjamin Bridge Nova 7 and LUVO Pinot Grigio — Tattingstone Inn charcuterie board paired with Benjamin Bridge *Nova 7* and LUVO *Pinot Grigio*

Troy Restaurant: Mixed Mezze Plate paired with Grande Pré Wines *Tidal Bay,* Crème Brûlée

Tattingstone brunch: Whipped Yogurt Parfait, Belgian Waffles, Loaded Avocado Toast

1365 Church Street Vineyard & Winery, Port Williams

Overview: Have you had a chance to visit 1365 Church Street Vineyard & Winery yet? It opened recently in Port Williams near Wolfville. Amber and John were fantastic hosts. I had a lovely time chatting with them, tasting some delicious wines and admiring their stunning view of the snowy vineyard.

Tip: Take some time to explore the 13-acre vineyard with breathtaking views of the Wellington Dyke and Cape Blomidon.

Personal faves: Check out the fun colourful bicycles around the property!

Next time: I’m looking forward to catching up with Amber and John to see how their business is growing the next time I pop by for a couple bottles of Oh Sooo Rosé and Eight Bikes.

Benjamin Bridge, Wolfville

Overview: Benjamin Bridge offers a Terroir Tasting for small groups highlighting five sparkling wines paired with delicious locally-sourced charcuterie bites. We took some time to taste each wine, including the sought-after Brut Reserve, as our fantastic host, Kyla, gave us a tour. We learned about the vineyard’s unique climate, soil and terrain, all of which affect the taste of wine.

Tip: A tasting tour is a great way to try new wines before picking up your favourite bottles to bring home.

Personal faves: Loved the outdoor fire pit! Can’t think of a better way to spend the afternoon with friends.

Next time: I’m looking forward to visiting in the spring and summer to take a tour of the vineyard and garden in full bloom.

Bessie North House, Canning

Overview: Anyone who follows me knows how much I love Bessie North House, tucked away in sweet Canning. Dave and Susan are amazing hosts and have become great friends. I try to visit at least once each season to try their ever-changing and locally-sourced seasonal tasting menu. They nail it every single time.

Tip: Day trips can be full without being too rushed. On my way to Canning, I stopped by Lightfoot & Wolfville to pick a few of their wines to pair with my meal at Bessie North (you can bring your own wine!). I selected the 2019 Flora (a Germanic-inspired aromatic blend of select white varieties), the 2019 Bubbly Rose (a fruit-driven sparkling rosé with fragrant floral aromatics) and the 2017 Ancienne Pinot Noir (an elegant and refined red with notes of brambleberry, brown spice, dark cherry and sandalwood).

Personal faves: I loved every course; they all fit together perfectly. The menu changes monthly, sometimes weekly, depending on the local produce in season. Dave’s desserts always end the evening on a decadent note, especially when there is homemade ice cream.

Next time: I enjoy having my annual birthday dinner with foodie friends at Bessie North and I book far in advance. You can even sign-up for the wait list. (Do it, trust me.)

Left: Trout, beet, watercress, horseradish. Right: Onion, squash, cabbage.

Left: Duck, rutabaga, apple, mustard. Right: Potato, whey, caviar.

Left: Lamb, celeriac, kale. Right: Chocolate, miso, hazelnut, pear.

Gourmet By Nature, near Baxter's Harbour Falls

Overview: Maple syrup season in Nova Scotia is in March and April. Sure, I “know” how maple syrup is made, but I’d never learned how to tap the trees and boil the sap. I was curious to learn more about it this year. Gourmet by Nature offers wild experiences, including Maple Syrup Tree to Table. A short hike in the snowy woods, led by Sean, included a demo on how to tap a maple tree and collect the sap.

Personal faves: Back at the campfire, we melted the sap and added it to the pan boiling over the outdoor stove, followed by some delicious taste-testing. Sean and Tara had lots of treats for us to try: maple drops, smoked salmon, wild veggie sliders with maple parsnip puree, micro greens and maple cheesecake. All delicious! Maple syrup is a gift, pure and simple.

Tip: Weather can be unpredictable in any season, but especially winter here in NS. Be sure to pack layers and to have extras just in case. It will help you enjoy the full experience so much more.

Next time: I would love to try one of Gourmet By Nature’s foraging and outdoor cooking workshops. Each experience is unique.

Grand Pré Wines, Grand Pré

Overview: This vineyard (also the home of Le Caveau restaurant) is beautiful and peaceful in any season and I like taking the time for a stroll through the vines before picking up some bottles at the shop. It’s nice to be among the fruits that make our wines.

Personal faves: I picked up three bottles: a 2018 Riesling, a 2019 Rosé and a 2018 Castello.

Tip: I like to stop by Grand Pré Wines on my way into Wolfville before visiting friends or an overnight stay. Lots of wineries, cideries, and breweries carry local products to complement the meals you have planned.

Next time: I’ll be back for another visit to do a tasting with friends and dine at Le Caveau.

Juniper Food & Wine, Wolfville

Overview: Nestled on Main Street in Wolfville, this lovely 16-seat restaurant and wine bar focuses on fresh local produce and small delicious dishes that can easily be shared or enjoyed solo. In fact, I love sharing so that I can try everything!

I’m always happy to see oysters on the menu so I started my meal with Sober Island Oysters paired with L'Acadie Vineyards 2017 Vintage Cuvée. My second starter was the Spinach and Walnut Salad with grilled sweet potato and whipped goat’s cheese. Loved the garlicky dressing!

For my entrée I ordered the popular Hopgood’s Hot Chicken: boneless thigh and wing fried and dipped with slaw, pickles, and a spicy comeback sauce. I enjoyed this dish with a glass of Benjamin Bridge 2019 Cab Franc Rosé. One of my faves, I do love a great Rosé.

For dessert I ordered the Lemon Meringue Tart: almond crust, lemon curd, torched meringue. Something sweet and light to finish off a fantastic meal.

Personal Faves: Hopgood’s Hot Chicken; who doesn’t love fried chicken with a bit of a kick?

Tip: Sharing is caring. Order several plates to share so you can taste what Juniper offers - you really can’t go wrong.

Next time: I’m looking forward to trying the spring, summer and fall menus!

Locust & Starr Inn, Wolfville

Overview: My stay at the eclectic Locust & Starr Inn made my artistic heart happy. A boost of colour on a grey weekend is just what I needed. I enjoyed a cozy, quiet evening with a complimentary bottle from Annapolis Cider Company. It’s nice to have some down time to just chill out and read a book. Lisa was such a welcoming and kind host.

Personal fave: Waking up to freshly made donuts! Haskap Blueberry, Brown Butter & Toffee, Lemon Lavender Honey. Yum!

Tip: Check out the new summer Bathhouse Suite featuring a private outdoor clawfoot tub and shower, a fire pit and is dog friendly!

Next time: Their Unpredictable Dinner series makes my foodie heart sing. Hosted on the first Friday of each month, these dinners feature unusual locations and an innovative chef. Each month’s experience is unique and I truly can’t wait!

Bent Ridge Winery, Windsor

Overview: Even on a chilly day, a visit to Bent Ridge Winery is like a mini trip to Italy. Delicious salads, charcuterie boards, pastas and pizzas (cooked in the wood-fired oven), all paired with local wine and beer!

Tip: With a view of Ski Martock, it’s a lovely location for a wander through the vineyards and a swing among the apple trees.

Personal fave: It was so hard to choose! We enjoyed the Burrata Board, the Bent Ridge Belly pizza and the Rosé Ravioli pasta. All super yummy and I wouldn’t hesitate to order again. For wine we enjoyed the Slightly Bent White Blend, the Piegato Rosé and the Appassimento Style Marquette Red.

Next time: I’ll be back on a Thursday evening to try the Argentinian Grill Night featuring local meat and seafood prepared on the "Parilla" grill.

Annapolis Brewing Company, Annapolis Royal

Overview: While visiting Annapolis Royal on a sunny but chilly day, I popped into Annapolis Brewing Company to taste some beer and cider. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.

Personal faves: I tried the Rising Tide Semi-Sweet Cider, Cranberry Cider, Port Royal Pilsner and Acadian Honey. The flight is a great way to try different options.

Tip: Not sure what to get? The staff will be happy to help you choose, whether you’re looking for something familiar or brand new. Don’t be shy.

Next time: I’ll keep trying their offerings - new or old, it doesn’t matter. They never disappoint.

Founders House, Annapolis Royal

Overview: Founder’s House had been on my wish list for a while and I was very excited to finally try a seasonal, locally-sourced tasting menu prepared by Chef Christopher Pyne. This meal did not disappoint!

I chose the three course menu and trusted my server’s recommendations for local wine pairings. Each course was beautifully plated and absolutely delicious. It was a lovely experience and I can’t wait to visit again soon.

Appetizers:
Japanese Milk Roll with 'nduja + maple butter.
Lamb Rillette Croquette with house-made tomato jam and burnt feta tarragon aioli.

First course:
Rainbow Trout Charred Caesar with sea buckthorn, crackling crumb, confit yolk, broken dressing. Paired with Planters Ridge Chardonnay (dry, clear, fully body, apple, lightly oaked).

Second Course:
Bavette Lyonnaise with potato, broccolini and shitake. Paired with Grand Pré Wines 20th Anniversary red (rich, smooth, fully body, red fruit and spice).

Last course:
Baked Coffee Custard: dark chocolate dipped, JD Shore Rum ice cream, almond and orange. Paired with Coffee Moonshine + JD Shore cocktail.

Personal fave: A surprise dish sent by the chef: Halibut Channa with roasted squash, lobster and curry emulsion. Divine!

Tip: Your server will have excellent recommendations for food and drink pairings.I recommend trying following their advice and trying something new - they won’t lead you astray.

Next time: I’ll be choosing the full six course menu next time because, well, how could I not?

A Seafaring Maiden B&B, Granville Ferry

Overview: While visiting Annapolis Royal, I stayed at A Seafaring Maiden Bed & Breakfast. Bill and Ann Marie were friendly, welcoming hosts. After a restful sleep I enjoyed a delicious breakfast by the wood fireplace. Poached pears with yogurt and walnuts followed by cheesy eggs soufflé and bacon. One of the best B&B breakfasts I've had.

Tip: Located in Granville Ferry, this B&B is just outside the town and has a lovely view of Fort Anne National Historic Site from a private gazebo overlooking the river.

Personal fave: Nona’s Preserves Carrot Cake Jam made specially for the B&B. So good on a warm, homemade biscuit.

Next time: I would love to spend more time in the area, so an extended stay is on my wishlist. The charm is irresistible.

Petite Rivière Vineyards, Petite Rivière

Overview: One of my favourite day trips is a drive along the south shore down to Petite Rivière. It’s a lovely little community with beautiful sandy beaches. Petite Rivière Vineyards takes advantage of the unique terroir this area has to offer; a sunny microclimate nestled in the hills with rocky soil and ocean breezes making their wines complex and distinctive.

Tip: Plan to spend some time at this French-inspired winery sipping wine from the terrace overlooking the drumlins and vineyard.

Personal Faves: I chose the 2019 Mimi (I love a bubbly rosé!) and the 2016 Drumlin Series Kissing Brook (a rich and elegant red blend) to pair with a home-made charcuterie board enjoyed by the fireplace. They also have wine jellies that are great with cheese and crackers!

Next time: I’m looking forward to visiting again for a live music event, and a stroll through the vineyard.

Shack Up Cabin, La Have

Overview: I spent the most magical two days hidden away in the woods at Shack Up Cabin on the lovely south shore. Such a treat to get away and truly relax with a warm cozy fireplace and an outdoor wood-fired hot tub (I know, right?!). The cabin is perfect for weekend retreats, romantic nights, winter getaways, and escaping the city to relax in nature.

Tip: Take advantage of the record player and vintage record collection! Also, bring warm slippers! The bathroom is a separate building a few steps across the deck from the main cabin.

Personal fave: Enjoying a glass of wine while floating in the outdoor hot tub listening to the babbling brook with snow falling softly all around me. Whew! I will be back for sure.

Next time: With two new Shack Up locations currently being built, I’m looking forward to a new relaxing south shore experience.

Ta-da! We made it to the end. Revisiting this trip – the people I met, the snowy settings, the cozy fires, the drinks enjoyed, the food devoured, the rest and relaxation, the gratitude – has given me a whole new perspective on travelling locally in Nova Scotia, this province is a foodie’s paradise. Enjoy!

* This post was sponsored by Tourism Nova Scotia for the #CreatorCoast campaign. All opinions expressed are my own.