N.S. Wine and Cider sold at Halifax Farmers Market

N.S. LIQUOR CORP.--N.S. Wine and Cider sold at Halifax Farmers Market

For the rest of this year, Nova Scotians can buy locally-produced wine and cider from six cottage wineries along with other Nova Scotia agricultural products at the weekly Farmers Market in Halifax.

The initiative is an experiment involving the Taste of Nova Scotia Quality Food Program and the Brewery Market. Results of the experiment will be used in the province's development of an overall strategy for the Nova Scotia wine and cider industry.

"This is one of several initiatives that are currently under way," said Rodney MacDonald, Minister responsible for administration of the Liquor Control Act. "We see this as an important step in changing the way beverage alcohol products are sold and distributed in Nova Scotia. It will be good for consumers, good for the market, and certainly good for the industry."

Doug Corkum of Sainte-Famille Wines in Falmouth, Hants Co., is one of the farm-winery operators participating in the program. He was pleased to see the government move in this direction.

"This is an idea that we have been promoting for some time," said Mr. Corkum. "Offering our products at the Brewery Market is a natural extension of those offered for sale at our shop at the winery. This will give us added exposure to customers and let them see the full range of quality products we have to offer."

"Nova Scotia wineries are important members of the Taste of Nova Scotia program and this marketing venture offers them a unique selling opportunity," said Ernest Fage, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries. "Nova Scotians in turn, get the chance to try some of our province's finest cottage wines for the first time."

Murray Gouin, executive director of the Taste of Nova Scotia program, was enthusiastic about the decision.

"Fine wine can be a wonderful complement to great food, and Nova Scotia wines are achieving a superb reputation around the world," he said. "This decision will allow consumers to try wines they may never have considered previously, and show them how well they pair up with certain foods."

Winemakers participating in this initiative include Telder Berry Wines, Lunenburg County Winery, Domaine de Grand Pre, Jost Vineyards, Sainte-Famille Winery, and Habitant Vineyards. Wines are available at the Brewery Market's new wine cellar until Dec. 31.

The Halifax Farmers Market is the oldest farmers market in North America and is open Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., year round.