About Us
History in our Roots. Growth in our Future.
The Vineyards
Our vineyards are planted on the steeply sloped valley walls above Bear River, a tidal estuary that flows into the Annapolis Basin. Mostly south facing, they overlook the stunning vistas of the valley in a sun drenched amphitheatre. Benefiting from the exceptional sun, the warming influence of the water and the relative lack of fog we grow a mix of vinifera and hybrids.
We currently have almost four acres under vine, many having been self propagated in our greenhouse. With more vineyard trellised and ready to plant we are excited to expand our production in the coming years.
The Property
Bear River Vineyards sits on eleven acres of beautiful valley land. Stretching from the banks of the river all the way up to Chute Road and the Winery. The panoramic views of the valley from the precipice overlooking the vineyard are captivating.
If you can tear yourself away from the view and look around you will discover that our ideal growing conditions make this versatile place home to more than just wine grapes. A short walk will reveal table grapes, peaches, several types of berries and currants, walnuts, lavender, mint and more!
Attached to the winery is a greenhouse where, in addition to the vines that are being propagated, lives a majestic fig tree. More than 20 years old, it still provides hundreds of figs each year that result in a supply of home made fig jam for sale in our shop.
All of this wonderful bounty from the land is paired with tastings when in season and available.
You may notice solar panels situated around the property. We are proud to say that we take advantage of the natural power of the sun and utilize solar energy whenever possible for our operation.
The Winery
Atop the vineyard sits the Winery. Housed in a masterfully renovated bank barn that dates back to 1883, no detail was overlooked when designing the home and heart of the operation. Most of the material came from the land, and virtually all of the craftsmanship and décor that give the winery its charm and character was the work of the original owners.
The unique four and a half storey design of the bank barn allows for gravity fed wine production. This is a vintner's dream, as it ensures our grapes and wines are treated as delicately as possible to preserve their integrity and quality during the process.
The concrete floors and stone walls of the cellars provide naturally consistent cool temperatures for our wines throughout their life from fermentation through to bottling and ageing.
The main level of the winery holds the tasting bar and wine shop. From its soaring beamed ceiling to its herringbone slate floor, it is the perfect place to enjoy our wines while surrounded by understated elegance.
The Owners
We were married in a vineyard in the Annapolis Valley, where we both grew up. The thought of one day returning to Nova Scotia and calling a vineyard home took root in our minds. Busy in Ontario with our professional lives, and raising our small crew of teenagers, it seemed a far distant dream until we happened across a listing for a small vineyard in Bear River. From the first stunning photos, to the intriguing narrative, we were hooked. Despite the challenges of timing and logistics there was an undeniable pull to make this special place ours. We first saw it on a cold December day, Darren's birthday, and we knew if we loved it then we would love it forever.
Becoming the owners of Bear River Vineyards is a privilege, and we are honored that we have been entrusted us with its care.
- Su, Darren, Lexi, Kyle, Drew, Tigger, and Sara