Moira Peters and Craig Pinhey have crafted an impressive and passionately written celebration of one of Canada’s most exciting and rapidly developing wine regions. Co-authored by two of Atlantic Canada’s foremost wine voices—Peters, a seasoned journalist and drinks writer, and Pinhey, a respected vintner and marketer—the book blends practical insights with infectious enthusiasm, while the visuals by sommelier‑photographer Jessica Emin infuse the pages with rustic elegance and region‑specific charm.
From the outset, the authors weave a compelling narrative about why Atlantic Canada is earning its place on the global wine map. They offer a well-researched account of the region’s unique growing conditions—coastal maritime climate, granite soils, and lusciously long summer days—and how these elements contribute to crisp whites, elegant sparkling wines, and increasingly sophisticated reds.
Peters brings journalistic rigor to each chapter, peppering it with insightful interviews—winemakers, viticultural pioneers, and sommeliers share their stories, struggles, and triumphs. Pinhey complements this with insider know‑how, guiding the reader through tasting notes, vineyard profiles, and the sensory experience of discovering Atlantic wines. Their combined voices are conversational yet authoritative, offering both depth and accessibility for novices and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
The book is organized region‑by‑region, each section beginning with a picturesque spread by Emin that captures the essence of the land and its people—dew‑laden vines, barn‑yard cellars, and the ever‑present Atlantic horizon. These strong visual moments offer a harmonious pause before diving into narrative and technical detail.
Each chapter also includes:
- Featured Wineries: In‑depth profiles showing history, philosophy, and wine style.
- Tasting Focus: Highlights of signature grape varieties (L’Acadie Blanc, Isabelle, Ortega, Marechal Foch) and standout cuvées.
- Practical Guidance: Where to visit, tasting room atmospheres, and pairing suggestions with local cuisine (like lobster rolls from Cape Breton or mussels in Prince Edward Island cream sauce).
This format allows readers to learn, plan visits, and buy informed by true regional context. Added bonus: a chapter on wine tours available in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Before venturing out to explore these delightful vineyards, do a little research to discover their unique interaction with guests, i.e. restaurants, vineyard tours, wine tasting, festivals, etc.
Cooking with wine is always fun and with the abundance of fruit in the Maritimes, many wineries produce fruit wines that can be used in recipes. Blueberries will soon be exploding throughout Canada so pick up a bottle of local blueberry wine and make the most delectable Blueberry Brownie found in our Recipe section. Easy and oh so divine!
Emin’s photography is more than decorative—it’s storytelling. Her images capture the textures of slate cellar walls, light dancing on vineyard rows, and the crisp crystalline formation of ice wine grapes. These visuals carry emotional resonance, inviting you into each region’s sensory environment. They elevate the book from mere reference to an immersive travelogue. Get your copy of the book before the memorable road trip throughout the region at https://nimbus.ca/store/the-wine-lovers-guide-to-atlantic-canada.html or win it in our Giveaway section.
What I Loved
- Balanced Tone: Scholarly yet warm—no dry wine jargon without explanation.
- Regional Pride: The authors’ collective zeal for Atlantic Canada’s potential is infectious.
- Visual Design: Layout and photography work seamlessly to transport the reader.
- Usability: Excellent for wine lovers planning a trip, collectors seeking new wines, or home cooks looking to pair local styles.
A Few Minor Caveats
- Technical Depth: While delightful for wine lovers, enophiles craving deep oenological science might find it light—this is more about discovery than fermentation chemistry.
- Coverage Scope: The spotlight leans heavily on Nova Scotia and particularly the Annapolis Valley, with shorter section on New Brunswick and only an honourable mention for PEI and Newfoundland. But this mirrors where most production still happens.
The Wine Lover’s Guide to Atlantic Canada is a beautifully curated tribute to a region on the rise. With engaging storytelling, practical guidance, and sumptuous visuals, Peters, Pinhey, and Emin have gifted both tourists and local wine fans a must‑have companion. Whether you’re sipping a sparkling Atlantic cuvée at the vineyard or curled up at home planning your first Maritime wine tour, this is the perfect guide—and inspiration—to celebrate the next chapter in Canadian wine.
Contents and images used with permission by Nimbus Publishing. https://nimbus.ca/store/the-wine-lovers-guide-to-atlantic-canada.html
