Wine Enthusiast Tour Lead by a Sommelier

Imagine spending a day in the rolling vineyards and countryside of Nova Scotia, sampling some of the region’s best wines while learning from an expert. That’s exactly what the Wine Enthusiast Tour led by a certified sommelier offers. In about seven hours, you’ll visit three top wineries—Bent Ridge, Planters Ridge, and Benjamin Bridge—enjoy a delicious Latin-inspired lunch at one of the most sought-after rural restaurants, and receive in-depth insights into the world of wine from your engaging guide. All of this for around $176 per person makes it a meaningful investment in both your palate and your knowledge.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the personalized attention of a knowledgeable sommelier guide, who shares interesting stories and wine facts, and the chance to taste a variety of wines—from sparkling to reds—at beautifully curated wineries. An added bonus is the lunch at Fuego, where the focus on fresh, well-prepared dishes nicely complements the wine tastings.

A small consideration for some travelers might be the group size of up to 24, which can be lively but still intimate enough to enjoy meaningful conversations or ask questions. Also, given the 7-hour duration, it’s well suited for those who enjoy a full-day experience without feeling rushed. This tour is ideal for wine lovers eager to explore Nova Scotia’s wine culture in a relaxed, friendly setting, and for those who appreciate expert guidance and authentic local flavors.

Key Points

Expert-led experience: Led by a personable, knowledgeable certified sommelier.
Variety of wineries: Includes visits to Bent Ridge, Planters Ridge, and Benjamin Bridge.
Gourmet lunch: Features a wine pairing lunch at the Latin-inspired Fuego restaurant.
Beautiful scenery: Enjoy stunning vineyard views and a cozy, rural atmosphere.
Educational focus: Learn about wine production, tasting techniques, and Nova Scotia’s wine history.
Value for money: Combines tastings, lunch, and expert guidance in one package.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

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Start at Halifax: Convenient Meeting Point

The tour begins at 1675 Lower Water St, right in Halifax’s lively waterfront area. Arriving around 10:15 am, you’ll gather with other wine enthusiasts before heading out into the countryside. The easy access from public transportation makes it simple for travelers staying downtown.

First Stop: Bent Ridge Winery

Arriving at Bent Ridge Winery at 11:30 am, you’ll be greeted with a wine tasting and a lunch at Fuego, a Latin-inspired restaurant set in a rustic, rural setting. The lunch choices range from fresh salads, pastas, to specialty pizzas, with vegan and gluten-free options available. The pairing of wines and food is a highlight—expect to enjoy wines that pair beautifully with dishes like rosé ravioli or house-made sausage pizza.

This first stop is not just about tasting; the view of the vineyards provides a lovely backdrop to your meal and immersion in Nova Scotia’s wine culture. The tasting and lunch last about an hour, giving ample time to relax, chat, and savor.

Second Stop: Planters Ridge Winery

Next, around 1:30 pm, the group heads to Planters Ridge for a tour and tasting. Here, you’ll learn about the wine-making process, sample a curated selection, and get a chance to stroll through the scenic vineyards. The setting feels warm and inviting, perfect for wine novices and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

Final Stop: Benjamin Bridge

Your last visit, arriving at 3:00 pm, is to Benjamin Bridge, known as Nova Scotia’s premier sparkling wine house. The tour of their stone barrel cellar offers a glimpse into their sophisticated production methods. You’ll taste their signature sparkling wines, which are often praised for their crispness and elegance.

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The Experience: What Makes It Special?

The personal touch of your guide Robin, as praised by reviews, enhances the day significantly. Robin’s knowledgeable approach and engaging stories make each stop more meaningful, helping you understand the nuances of each wine and the region’s unique climate. The small group size fosters a relaxed environment where questions are encouraged, and everyone’s curiosity is satisfied.

The Wines

Expect a wide selection that showcases Nova Scotia’s diversity—from sparkling and rosé to reds and whites. The region’s wines are noted for their freshness, balance, and quality, often winning awards and recognition.

The Lunch

A real standout is the lunch at Fuego, which pairs well with the wine tastings. The menu is carefully curated, with options like spinach salad, pesto chicken pasta, and tutta carne pizza. Many reviewers, including Jacqueline, mention that lunch was fantastic, with some noting the thoughtful presentation and the delicious flavors.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Group Size and Duration

With a maximum of 24 travelers, the group maintains an intimate and engaging atmosphere. The 7-hour length is ideal for those who enjoy a full day of activity without feeling overwhelmed, providing enough time at each stop for in-depth tasting and learning.

Price and Value

At $176.11, this tour offers a comprehensive experience: tastings at three renowned wineries, a gourmet lunch with wine pairings, and guidance from an expert. While that might seem steep, considering the quality of the wineries, the expert guidance, and the included meal, many find it well worth the price for a curated, immersive day.

Accessibility and Booking

The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible for travelers staying in Halifax. It’s booked an average of 67 days in advance, showing its popularity, so planning ahead is wise. You’re asked to include your lunch preferences when booking, which helps ensure a smooth experience.

Cancellation Policy

The free cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour, providing peace of mind should your plans change. In case of bad weather, the tour offers a full refund or rescheduling, which is good to know given Nova Scotia’s sometimes unpredictable climate.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

What sets this tour apart is its focus on authenticity. Instead of generic tastings, you’ll enjoy locally loved wineries where staff are friendly and proud of their craft, and you will learn directly from a sommelier who makes the experience more engaging and educational. Visitors have praised Robin’s engaging style and the beautiful scenery, making it not just a tasting, but a memorable day out.

The wine choices are carefully curated, offering a balanced view of Nova Scotia’s wine scene. The inclusion of a stone barrel cellar tour at Benjamin Bridge adds a layer of depth for those interested in the craft behind sparkling wines. The lunch at Fuego makes the whole experience more satisfying, especially for those who enjoy pairing food and wine.

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Nova Scotia’s burgeoning wine scene, especially those who appreciate guided experiences with expert insights. It’s also suitable for food lovers, given the emphasis on a thoughtfully prepared lunch. Travel groups seeking a relaxed, educational day in scenic surroundings will find this particularly appealing.

If you prefer a more casual visit or are on a tight budget, you might find this experience a bit more curated than you’re after. However, for those who want a comprehensive, guided exploration that combines scenic vineyards, excellent wines, and delicious food, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the Wine Enthusiast Tour led by a certified sommelier offers an enriching taste of Nova Scotia’s wine culture. It combines beautiful vineyard visits, expert-guided tastings, and a gourmet lunch, all wrapped up in a friendly, personable atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for those who value education, quality, and authentic local experiences.

While the price might be higher than a simple tasting, the added value of guided insights, personalized attention, and a memorable setting makes this a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a curious traveler eager to learn more, this tour will deepen your appreciation for Nova Scotia’s wine scene and leave you with pleasant memories—and perhaps a new favorite bottle or two.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, starting at 10:15 am and ending back in Halifax.

How many wineries are visited?
Three wineries: Bent Ridge, Planters Ridge, and Benjamin Bridge.

Is lunch included in the tour price?
Yes, a wine pairing lunch at Fuego is included, with several options to choose from, including salads, pastas, and pizzas.

Can I choose my lunch options when booking?
Yes, you are prompted to include your preferred lunch choice during booking.

Is this tour suitable for a small group?
Yes, it accommodates up to 24 people, fostering a friendly and engaging atmosphere.

What wines will I taste?
Expect a variety, including sparkling, rosé, reds, and whites, representing Nova Scotia’s diverse wine offerings.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation is not explicitly mentioned, but the tour begins from a central meeting point near public transit.

What’s the price point compared to the experience?
At just over $170, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with tastings, lunch, and expert guidance, offering good value for quality.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 67 days ahead, so early planning is recommended.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which makes it flexible and low-risk for travelers.

This guided wine tour balances education, scenic beauty, and delicious local flavors, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to Nova Scotia. Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll come away with new knowledge—and perhaps a new favorite bottle.