Wine Kitz Atlantic

March 2008

There has never been a better time to be involved in the consumer-made wine industry in the Atlantic provinces.

Why do I make such a statement? There are several very good reasons.

As a 16-year player in the industry as a store owner, regional director and winemaker, there have never been more winemaking stores and more people reaping the merits and benefits of making their own wines.

There are approximately 75 winemaking shops in the Atlantic provinces. This figure does not include ‘big box,’ hardware, co-op and drug stores who also dabble in the sales of winemaking products.

By my estimation, there are approximately 27 stores in New Brunswick, 24 stores in Nova Scotia, 19 in Newfoundland/Labrador and 5 stores in Prince Edward Island.

The current Atlantic hot spot is New Brunswick. Since the introduction of in-store winery services in 2004, we have seen a mini-explosion of winemaking stores and winemakers. Drop into any New Brunswick store which offers in-store winery services and you note in excess of 100 full pails & carboys in various stages of fermentation. Take a few minutes to observe a winemaker in the process of bottling their 30 bottle batch. Take the opportunity to ask store staff for more detailed information. They will be very happy to answer your questions.

Another main reason winemaking has increased in popularity is due to advancement in the quality and increased product selection.

We, the owner/operators involved in the consumer-made wine industry are wine lovers too, and we know the experience of wine is an important part of life’s celebrations. Like food, there are wines for every event in your life. We have wines for every occasion from the casual to the momentous. You’ll find our wine consultants friendly and helpful, making sure the wine you make complements the occasion you’re celebrating. Choose from hundreds of varieties including such classics as Chardonnay, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, crisp Rieslings and rich Merlots.

Whether you enjoy a glass of wine occasionally or have a wine cellar your friends would envy, we can help you enjoy your favourite wines, all for a fraction of the cost of wine purchased at your local liquor store. We have a wine to suit your every mood, from every day table wines to exclusive limited releases.

In closing, if you’re contemplating a career change, enjoy being active, enjoy sales, promoting and marketing, then joining the consumer-made wine industry as a Wine Kitz franchise owner may be a fitting option. (CLICK HERE for answers to Frequently Asked Questions)

If you’re considering taking a leap of faith and becoming a winemaker, visit your local winemaking store – Wine Kitz would be the preferred choice. (CLICK HERE for a sample Wine List)

~ Blair

April Blog: Product Quality