Schedule

Master Of Ceremonies – Pete Luckett, Luckett Vineyards

• Sunday, June 11th

  • 8 am – 8 pm
    Conference Level

    Registration

  • 10 am – 5 pm

    Discover Annapolis Valley Wine Country Tour
    Meet in Westin Lobby by 9:50am

  • 6 pm – 7:30 pm
    Atlantic/Atlantic Mezzanine

    Networking Reception in Supplier Marketplace

• Monday, June 12th

  • 8 am – 8 pm
    Conference Level

    Registration

  • 8 am – 8:30 am
    Atlantic/Atlantic Mezzanine

    Nutrition Break in Supplier Marketplace

  • 8 am – 8:30 am
    Hotel front parking lot

    Sparkling Wine Disgorging Demonstration
    Matteo Meglioli, Viniserve

  • 8:30 am – 9:15 am
    Commonwealth A

    Keynote Address: Experiential Advice on how to Market Atlantic Canada Differently as an Emerging Wine Region
    Jamie Goode, Wine Writer, Judge, Lecturer and Author

     

    In this talk I'll be discussing some issues around how to market an emerging wine region on the world stage, taking examples that I've collected from my travels round the wine world. Timing is important: you get one chance to tell your story, so it's important to decide when are you ready to go. It's a bit like surfing: you have to catch the wave. This sometimes means you have to wait. On the subject of timing, if you use metrics to assess your success, then beware the lag period between performance and results. One of the most important messages is that it's important to do one thing well. In a crowded marketplace you need to stand out. People need a simple, clear story. What is your strength? "We do lots of things quite well," is a terrible marketing message. Lead with your best. It is vital to segment the marketplace in these discussions, and I'll talk about how to understand the various segments, and the all important route to market that applies to each. Your neighbour is not your competitor and a collegiate, team approach really does work best. Collaboration allows resources to be shared, and as a group you can get noticed. Also, if a generic brand can be kept pure then it is powerful. Always cherish (not envy) the big players and the press that they get because they can be a great asset. With regard to examples, I'm going to look at Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Provence Rosé and English Sparkling wine, which are interesting case studies: just why were these (are these) so successful, and what can be learned? Finally, I'll list several practical steps that Atlantic Canada can take to market their wines.

  • 9:15 am – 10 am
    Commonwealth A

    A Marketing Plan for Small Wineries – Strategies, Tactics and Execution for Ten Years
    Paul Wagner, Balzac Communications & Marketing

     

    Everything you need to know to create and execute a marketing plan that will support your sales efforts and promote your brand for the next ten years: strategies, tactics, and execution.

  • 9:15 am – 10 am
    Commonwealth B

    The Mis-education of an Alpine Winegrower - Farming Unlikely Vineyards in an Unlikely Place - The Quest for Life, Landscape and Love in a Bottle
    Deirdre Heekin, Winemaker and Author

     

    An informal conversation about what it’s like to farm cold climate hybrid varietals in the burgeoning alpine wine region of Vermont, working with organic, biodynamic and polyculture practices in both the field and the cellar. The efforts to produce living and vibrant wines from a living and evolving climate.

  • 9:15 am – 10 am
    Tradewinds

    Improving the Quality and Sustainability of Ontario’s Vineyards through Research and Outreach
    Dr. Jim Wilwerth, Brock University

     

    Discussion surrounding some research and outreach programs in viticulture at the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute, Brock University. Topics will include cold hardiness research, freeze protection strategies, plant material evaluations and vineyard management.

  • 10 am – 10:30 am
    Atlantic/Atlantic Mezzanine

    Nutrition Break in Supplier Marketplace

  • 10 am – 10:30 am
    Hotel front parking lot

    Sparkling Wine Disgorging Demonstration
    Matteo Meglioli, Viniserve

  • 10:30 am – 11:15 am
    Commonwealth B

    Panel: Importance of Restaurants and Bars as Brand Ambassadors with a Focus on Atlantic Canada
    Jeremy Bonia, Raymonds/Merchant Tavern; Heather Rankin, Obladee Wine Bar; Peter Smit, Happinez Wine Bar; Nicole Raufeisen, Little Oak Bar

     

    The panel explores the important role restaurants and bars play in promoting and selling local wine, examining local markets, consumer reception, education and awareness. Highlighting the importance of provincial support for small wineries and product availability beyond the cellar door. Taking a look at what types of wines sell well, what doesn't, and addressing challenges with staff education - as product and regional specialists. Sparking ideas for creating diverse and exciting wine lists while incorporating an ever-growing abundance of regional bottlings.

  • 10:30 am – 11:15 am
    Commonwealth A

    Role of Organic Nitrogen in Promoting Aromatics
    Dr. Nichola Hall, sponsored by Scott Laboratories

     

    In order for yeast to successfully and completely convert sugar into alcohol they need nutrients to be both biologically available and in balance. During this presentation we will discuss yeast nutrition from a fermentation security standpoint and address the role of yeast nutrition in aromatic production.

  • 11:15 am – 12 Noon
    Commonwealth A

    Panel: Tourism in Emerging Wine Regions
    Magdalena Kaiser, Wine Marketing Association of Ontario; Heather Yule, Tourism Nova Scotia; Gilliane Nadeau, Uncorked Tours; Martha Reynolds, Martha Reynolds Marketing

     

    This panel will explore the important role that tourism plays in wine country of any region. Best practices will be shared from Ontario where the concept of culinary tourism are deeply rooted in the Ontario wine regions. Stories shared from New Brunswick tour provider will showcase what is being done in that province. Tourism Nova Scotia will be sharing recent metrics on Tourism visitation, including specifics on their “culinary tourists” who spend more and stay longer. With over $19.2 million in Tourism spin-offs in Nova Scotia alone, Tourism can be a solid driver for Maritime wine country.

  • 11:15 am – 12 Noon
    Tradewinds

    Beyond the Grape
    Dominic Rivard, WinePlanet Consulting

     

    Innovative and quality fruit wines, fruit forward, fruit fusion and other fruit centric alcoholic beverages are now being made throughout the world and being accepted and gaining in popularity by a growing consumer base at a quickly growing rate. The wine consuming world is awakening to an entire product segment that lives outside the grape based wines. This is an exciting thing and opens up a world of possibilities. Let's explore this world together!

  • 11:15 am – 12 Noon
    Commonwealth B

    Wine and Grocery
    Greg Ramier, Loblaw

     

    Greg Ramier, Senior Vice, Emerging Business at Loblaw Companies Limited will be providing insight to the changing landscape for wine sales in grocery.

  • 12 Noon – 1:30 pm
    Atlantic/Atlantic Mezzanine

    Walkabout Lunch in Supplier Marketplace & Wine Tastings

  • 1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
    Commonwealth B

    Modern Day Public Relations and Why You Need It
    Paul Wagner, Balzac Communications & Marketing

     

    Why public relations is the best communications option for small wineries and how PR has changed in the digital age....or not changed at all.

  • 1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
    Commonwealth A

    Panel: National Research Forum
    Dr. Debra Moreau, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada; Dr. Debbie Inglis, Brock University; Dr. Kevin Usher, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

     

    Panel members will provide an overview of how provincial wine-grape industries have ‘built’ their relevant research programs, how the regional industries currently interact, and potential for development of research capacity at a national level. Researchers will discuss current funding models used to support existing research programs.

  • 2:15 pm – 3 pm
    Commonwealth B

    Social Media - A Winery Owner's Perspective
    Sandra Oldfield, Tinhorn Creek Vineyards

     

    We are all talking about social media’s expanding and crucial role driving wine sales but are we all doing it? And if we are doing it, are we doing it right? Is there even a right way when it comes to social media? Insights from a winery owner struggling through the digital world—just like you are.

  • 2:15 pm – 3 pm
    Commonwealth A

    Latest Developments, Trends and Visions - Technical and Sustainable Solutions in Modern Vineyard Management
    Johannes Kruetten, Clemens

     

    As an important part in growing grapes, soil cultivation has a significant impact on secured yields and wine quality. Main purposes are creating and preserving the natural soil fertility, an adequate supply of nutrients that meet the need of the vines and an efficient and sustainable care. The intensity of tillage and the selection of the right equipment, as well as the appropriate technique, has to be adaptable to local climate and soil conditions. Mostly soil cultivation has the objective to control weed, but it also assists and enhances physical loosening and aeration.

  • 3 pm – 3:30 pm
    Atlantic/Atlantic Mezzanine

    Nutrition Break in Supplier Marketplace & Wine Tastings

  • 3 pm – 3:30 pm
    Hotel front parking lot

    Sparkling Wine Disgorging Demonstration
    Matteo Meglioli, Viniserve

  • 3:30 pm – 4:15 pm
    Commonwealth B

    Sparkling Wine Bottling Innovations
    Matteo Meglioli, Viniserve

     

    Join Matteo for an overview of key points in quality control in finishing stages of sparkling wine production. A live Traditional Method disgorging demonstration will cover crucial points to ensure headache-free disgorging. The session will also be covering a series of techniques to ensure smooth, successful bottling of both Traditional and Charmat Method sparkling wine.

  • 3:30 pm – 4:15 pm
    Commonwealth A

    The Natural Wine Movement
    Alice Feiring, Author

     

    Almost forty years after the birth of the natural wine movement, its impact is profoundly felt on all aspects of the industry. Alice Feiring will present the evolution of natural wine and why this undeniable--though controversial force-- is changing what is in the vine and bottle today, and by the way, what is it...exactly.

  • 4:15 pm – 5 pm
    Commonwealth A

    Tidal Bay – 5 Years in Review
    Peter Gamble, Winemaker and Wine Consultant; Sean Wood, Author and Wine Consultant

     

    A retrospective look at the formulation and subsequent evolution of the Tidal Bay appellation and ‘brand’ - - how the idea became a reality, and how theory was turned into very successful practice. Peter, chief protagonist of the concept, and Sean, Independent Tasting Panel member since its inception, will examine the dramatic rise in Tidal Bay’s recognition and sales, as well as the role of the ITP in providing credibility to the rigorous standards envisaged. As we look at growth of markets elsewhere in Canada and beyond, what will be the future for Tidal Bay.

  • 4:15 pm – 5 pm
    Commonwealth B

    What's Growing in the Rest of Atlantic Canada
    Craig Pinhey, Sommelier and Wine Consultant; Moira Peters, Wine Writer

     

    Although Nova Scotia makes the most Atlantic wine, there is plenty of winemaking happening in the other provinces. Moira and Craig, co-authors of The Wine Lover's Guide to Atlantic Canada, will review what's growing elsewhere, including a review of grape varieties and other fruit, and invite discussion on cottage winery policies and the future of wine in the region.

  • 6:30 pm – 7:15 pm
    Atlantic/Atlantic Mezzanine

    Networking Reception in Supplier Marketplace

  • 7:15 pm – 9:30 pm
    Commonwealth A

    Gala Dinner

• Tuesday, June 13th

  • 8 am – 5 pm
    Conference Level

    Registration

  • 8 am – 8:30 am
    Atlantic/Atlantic Mezzanine

    Nutrition Break in Supplier Marketplace

  • 8 am – 8:30 am
    Hotel front parking lot

    Sparkling Wine Disgorging Demonstration
    Matteo Meglioli, Viniserve

  • 8:30 am – 9:15 am
    Commonwealth B

    Wine Sales and Service for a Growing Wine Region – Spotlight Nova Scotia
    Will Predhomme, Predhomme Inc.

     

    Target audience is Nova Scotia wineries and service providers. Drawing from experience on purchasing, producing, importing and promoting wine in international and domestic markets, Will Predhomme will provide a broad sweeping review of the avenues available relating to effective results.

  • 8:30 am – 9:15 am
    Commonwealth A

    Panel: Vineyard Management in Three Different Cool Climate Growing Regions
    Ethan Joseph, Shelburne Vineyard Vermont; Joel Williams, Hidden Bench Winery; Scott Savoy, Benjamin Bridge Winery

     

    Managing vineyards in three different cool climate wine growing regions - Vermont, Ontario and Nova Scotia - panelists will compare and contrast their challenges and successes in the vineyard. Topics such as canopy management, planting density, multi trunk vs. single trunk, pests & disease, vigor & fruit set will be explored.

  • 9:15 am – 10 am
    Commonwealth A

    Panel: Regulatory Environment, Export Trends and Growth in Canadian Wine Sales
    Asha Hingorani, Canadian Vintners Association; Dr. Janet Dorozynski, Global Affairs Canada; Ashley McConnell-Gordon, Benjamin Bridge Winery; Doug Phelan, ACOA

     

    Would you believe that it is easier to sell wine outside of Canada than it is to sell within our own country, province to province? In many cases this is true. This panel will look at inter-provincial hurdles for alcohol sale and establishing new markets in other provinces as well as examining the current trends in Canadian wine sales and export out of country. While a handful of Maritime producers are exporting out of province, it is a key area for future market development as the Atlantic industry continues to grow.

  • 9:15 am – 10 am
    Commonwealth B

    Wine Weather Forecast for the Maritimes: Warmer, Wetter and Wilder
    Dr. David Phillips, Environment Canada

     

    It’s hard to find an activity more dependent on weather than grape-growing and wine-making. After all you can’t make good wine out of bad grapes and you can’t really improve on what Mother Nature gives you. A real winner from climate change could be Canadian wines because of favourable growing conditions at home and adverse conditions for competition abroad. Climate change is happening now and what we are seeing is not just a warming up but a destabilization of familiar weather patterns. We can no longer assume that yesterday’s weather will apply tomorrow. For Canadian grape growers there will be both challenges and opportunities.

  • 9:15 am – 10 am
    Tradewinds

    Sparkling Winemaking on North America’s Fresh Coast
    Larry Mawby, Winemaker

     

    Larry will review current practices in sparkling winemaking, both traditional and cuve close methods and will follow a brief history of winemaking on Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula.

  • 10 am – 10:30 am
    Atlantic/Atlantic Mezzanine

    Nutrition Break in Supplier Marketplace

  • 10 am – 10:30 am
    Hotel front parking lot

    Sparkling Wine Disgorging Demonstration
    Matteo Meglioli, Viniserve

  • 10:30 am – 11:15 am
    Commonwealth A

    Comparison of Champagne: France, UK and Other Cool Climate Regions
    Stephen Skelton, Master of Wine, Winemaker, Author

     

    For cool climate regions, where growing conditions often limit yields and ripeness levels, high quality sparkling wines are often the way to get the maximum value out of grape growing. This presentation will compare production conditions in Champagne, the UK and other cool vineyard regions.

  • 11:15 am – 12 Noon
    Commonwealth A

    Panel: Sparkling Wine Forum
    Jamie Goode, Wine Writer, Judge, Lecturer and Author; Treve Ring, Wine Writer, Judge and Radio Host; Dr. Belinda Kemp, Brock University; Simon Rafuse, Winemaker, Blomidon Estate Winery; D.J. Kearney, Judge, Wine Align Awards

     

    Sparkling is one of Canada’s most exciting wine trends. Panelists will speak to the key styles and unique characteristics that local sparkling wines have to offer. Provincially and nationally our climate produces top bubbles and panelists will explore wine trends in sparkling looking big picture with an international lens, then with an eye to Canadian producers and then with a final focus on Nova Scotia sparkling. Find out why our Maritime climate is so perfectly suited to the production of sparkling wines.

  • 11:15 am – 12 Noon
    Tradewinds

    Timing of Leaf Removal Differentially Affects the Sensory Quality of Red and White Wines
    Dr. Kevin Usher, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

     

    Fruiting zone leaf removal can improve wine quality in the Okanagan Valley. Sensory evaluations showed Shiraz wines with leaf removal at fruit set compared to veraison or no leaf removal resulted in lower vegetative but higher dark fruit and pepper flavour and aroma. Astringency and phenolics were higher with early and 100% leaf removal. Riesling and Sauvignon blanc wines benefited from later leaf removal, showing more tropical and citrus fruit flavour and aroma when applied at veraison than to at fruit set.

  • 12 Noon – 12:45 pm
    Atlantic/Atlantic Mezzanine

    Reception in Supplier Marketplace & Wine Tastings

  • 12:45 pm – 1:45 pm
    Commonwealth A

    Plated Lunch

  • 1:45 pm – 2:15 pm
    Atlantic/Atlantic Mezzanine

    Dessert Reception in Supplier Marketplace and Wine Tastings

  • 2:15 pm – 3:00 pm
    Commonwealth A

    Panel: 4 Way Street: 2 Countries: 4 Regions: 1 Macroclimate
    David Furer, Writer, Event Manager and Consultant;, Tom Pennachetti, Cave Spring Cellars; Larry Mawby, Winemaker; Jonathan Rodwell, Director of Viticulture & Winemaking, Devonian Coast Wineries

     

    Commonalities of climate, topography, soils and grape varieties exist between wine producing areas in New York, Michigan, Ontario and Nova Scotia. These panelists will explore overlapping factors and the impact they have in leading to a shared understanding and betterment of viticulture and market exposure.

  • 3 pm – 3:45 pm
    Commonwealth B

    20/20 Vision: Expectations versus Reality of the Current Industry
    Sean Wood, Author and Wine Consultant; Martha Reynolds, Martha Reynolds Marketing

     

    Sean addresses Nova Scotia - From the Vision Document and Strategic Plan of 2002 to Nova Scotia in 2020

     

    In some ways, the vision back then has turned out to be quite prescient, in other ways we did not foresee some of the amazing positive developments that have taken place. How much of the original vision has been achieved or exceeded? Where were goals exceeded? where did we fall short? What will Nova Scotia as an emerging world wine region look like in 2020? And some ideas on what needs to be done from here on.

     

    Martha addresses New Brunswick - Vision 2030: The New Brunswick Cottage Wine Industry

     

    In the summer of 2013, 8 wineries and 6 grape growers came together to articulate a vision of “a healthy industry producing quality wines that are appreciated by New Brunswickers and enhance visitor experiences”. A four-point plan was subsequently developed to build a cohesive organization, to build credibility with quality wines, to build relationships, and to build awareness. Already, the region boasts 22 wineries - 14 fruit wineries and 8 grape growing wineries. We look at how a collective of fruit wine and grape wine producers co-exist and talk about the hurdles they have overcome, some of the hurdles they continue to grapple with today and some thoughts on moving forward toward the vision.

  • 3 pm – 3:45 pm
    Commonwealth A

    Organic and Biodynamic Viticulture and Organic/BD and Natural Winemaking
    Ezra Cipes, Summerhill Pyramid Winery; Ann Sperling, Sperling Vineyards and Southbrook Vineyards; Josh Horton, Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards; Paul Pender, Tawse Winery; Remy Charest, Wine Writer and Judge

     

    Organic winegrowing and winemaking have been growing steadily in Canada and around the world. Why should winegrowers and winemakers choose organic/biodynamic/natural approaches in the vineyard and in the cellar? How do those approaches affect the resulting wines? What does it bring to the winery, in terms of production, but also of branding and sales? Winemakers from Nova Scotia, British Columbia and Ontario discuss their experience on the more natural side of things, and the reasons that got them to choose that direction.

  • 3:45 pm – 4:15 pm
    Commonwealth A

    Closing Remarks
    Pete Luckett, Luckett Vineyards; Dr. Benoit Girard, ACWS Chairman

Schedule is subject to change