The Avondale Sky Story

How a church that walked on water became a winery

In 2009, previous owners Stewart and Lorraine threw in city life to start a winery. They wanted a place where they could grow grapes and make wine in a way that was true to the philosophy of sustainable, healthy living in sync with the seasons.

Stewart and Lorraine found the perfect spot on the Avon Peninsula. One of the oldest vineyards in the province was for sale and they jumped on it, knowing the soil and climate in this area would help us grow exceptional grapes.

Saved from destruction

In honour of the vineyard’s history, and in keeping with our philosophy of sustainability, Stewart and Lorraine wanted to find and repurpose old buildings, rather than build new. That’s how an old barn from St. Croix River banks came to live here.

And then they visited St. Matthew's church in Walton. Built in 1837, its graceful interior and elegant windows created a sense of serenity that immediately lifted their spirits. When they heard it was slated for destruction, they knew we had to rescue it.

The church that walked on water

You can follow the church’s amazing 42-kilometre journey through the photos we have on display. Watch as it was moved by road to the Bay of Fundy waterfront, then by ferry—rising and falling with the world’s highest tides. Finally, by road again, to its new home on our vineyard. Miraculously, every pane of glass survived!

Reaping what we sow

We believe making the extra effort to do the right thing brings great rewards.

That’s why we harvest every grape in the vineyard by hand. And in return, our wines have won many prestigious awards.

Our chef’s menus reflects the best of the season, serving the freshest, most flavourful locally sourced choices, and also winning awards from Taste of Nova Scotia and the Restaurant Association of Nova Scotia.

The Coutinho family bought Avondale Sky Winery and Restaurant at the tail end of November 2019 from Stewart and Lorraine with the intentions of keeping their dream alive and growing what is already an excellent winery. Karl, Jaime and Sean will be the energy and vigour behind the business while Louis and Avila support in a range of capacities from the books to riding the tractors. We are very excited to continue the family owned and operated winery and continue to keep the focus local and sustainable. 

For more about our story and the history of Avondale Sky and the Coutinho family check out our 4-part podcast

Louis, Avila, Karl, Jaime, and Sean from left to right

We hope you will stop by to enjoy the experience and literal fruit of our labours for yourself. We look forward to seeing you!

– The Coutinho Family