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Welcome to U-VintNs.ca!

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What is U-Vint?

U-Vint, or ferment-on-premise as it is also known, is a business model where the customer makes wine, for their own personal consumption, in a retail environment rather than in their home.

Studies have found that consumers who use ferment-on-premise services in other provinces where such services are legal include the elderly, who cannot lift heavy product, apartment dwellers with space restrictions, and those with time restrictions due to business travel, etc..

Why Launch a Website?

The purpose of this website is to allow the citizens of Nova Scotia to voice an informed opinion regarding U-Vint operations in Nova Scotia. Much of the information we have collected over the years, including a feasibility study and a Nova Scotia court ruling, can be viewed by clicking on the various tabs provided.

Currently you can visit a U-Vint in five of the 10 provinces in Canada. Most notably, our neighbouring provinces of New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island provide these services to their citizens. To date, even after years of lobbying, the government of Nova Scotia does not think that there is a demand for this service. We strongly feel that they are mistaken. Our fellow New Brunswick owner/operators tell us they have many Nova Scotia residents who regularly use their do-it-yourself services. We anticipate the same trend in PEI.

If you wish to support our ongoing effort to introduce ferment-on-premise to Nova Scotia, you can do so by signing our on-line petition and let the government know that you want change. Also, you have the option of sending a letter to the Premier simply by clicking your mouse.

There are several key reasons why we would like to have in-store winery services introduced in Nova Scotia. The most important reason is that without in-store winery services in Nova Scotia, we as business owners and you, as consumers are at a disadvantage. With New Brunswick and now PEI offering in-store winery services, our provincial government is not allowing for a level playing field in the consumer-made wine industry.

There are several other reasons to have in-store winery services introduced in Nova Scotia. Many of these reasons are economic spin-offs. Despite the opinion of the nay-sayers, there would be no losers if the Nova Scotia government were to permit in-store winery services. Store owners would hire more employees, rent more space, collect and pay more taxes. More consumers will be introduced to winemaking and the joys and health benefits of drinking wine responsibly. Local and regional wineries and licensed establishments would also reap long term benefits from a more knowledgeable and expanded wine consumer base. Along with improving the industry’s visibility in the community, new recognition would strengthen the business model of the industry, attracting new investors with new and fresh ideas. Legislation would create a win-win for stakeholders & consumers alike.

The Battle So Far

In 2006, the Wine Kitz store in Halifax started offering ferment-on-premise services to their customers. Most of these customers were already Wine Kitz clients that for a variety of reasons chose to make their wine on site rather than at home. The Government responded by initiating a police investigation resulting in the operator being charged with three violations of the Nova Scotia Liquor Control Act. After a lengthy trial and almost ten thousand dollars in legal bills we are no further ahead. If you would like to read the Judge’s decision, just click the link on the menu bar.

Feasibility Study

In 2001, the Canadian Home Wine Trade Association commissioned a study of our industry and the benefits of allowing ferment-on-premise in Nova Scotia. If you would like to read it, click the link on the menu bar.

How We Do Business

Ferment-on-premise operators adhere to a code of conduct. The code assures a quality product, a safe work environment for both customers and employees, and the lawful conveyance of the finished product. Feel free to review the Code of Conduct by clicking the link on the menu bar.

Please join us in our efforts to bring this important service to our province. If you have any questions, please contact us at uvint@eastlink.ca.

The Process of Making Wine

Start with Quality Ingredients

Your local wine kit vendor will advise you on the purchase of a quality wine grape concentrate kit based upon your preferences.

Mix as per Expert Instructions

After your purchase you will move to the in-store winery area. There, under the guidance of your wine consultant, you will mix the ingredients of your kit and add the yeast to start the organic process of fermentation

Ferment in Controlled, Sterile Environment

Your wine will continue to ferment. Upon completeion it will be transferred to a carboy for de-gassing and clarification.

Bottle and Enjoy!

Upon notification of your wine consultant, you will return to bottle and cork your wine. This is mandated by the Canada Revenue Agency as the wine belongs to the customer, not the u-vint operator.

Wine making is a wonderful hobby. Wouldn't it be nice to be able to make your own wine in a controlled environment with guaranteed results? Ask your Premier why he thinks you should be denied the right of other Canadians.