Ice wine is a special and rare treat for wine lovers that needs proper care to keep its flavour and quality. This guide covers all the basics of storing and preserving ice wine, including how to refrigerate it, how long it lasts, and if freezing it is a good idea. You’ll also find useful tips on the best wine cellars to keep your ice wine collection in perfect condition.
Ice Wine Storing
Ice wine is a special dessert wine made from grapes that freeze naturally on the vine. This unique process gives the wine its signature sweetness and richness. However, if not stored correctly, its amazing taste can fade quickly.
👉 Store Upright
Unlike regular wines that are stored on their sides to keep the cork moist, ice wine can be kept upright. This reduces contact with the cork and prevents the wine from spoiling.
👉 Keep the Temperature Steady
Ice wine should be stored at a temperature between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Make sure it’s in a place with a consistent temperature. Avoid areas like kitchens or near air-conditioning units, where the temperature can change a lot.
👉 Keep It Away from Light
Light, especially UV rays or bright artificial light, can harm the wine’s flavour and aroma. Store it in a cool, dark place like a cupboard, wine fridge, or wine cellar.
👉 Maintain Proper Humidity
The best humidity level for storing ice wine is between 50% and 70%. This helps the cork last longer and keeps the wine from drying out or oxidizing.
👉 Use the Right Container
If you transfer your ice wine to another container, make sure it’s made of non-reactive materials like glass or stainless steel. This keeps the wine’s flavour pure and balanced.
Check out our ice wine collection for a selection of premium bottles with unique flavours, perfect for any occasion!
Does Ice Wine Need to Be Refrigerated?
Yes, you should refrigerate ice wine after opening the bottle. It tastes best when served chilled at about 10°C, letting you enjoy its sweet and complex flavours. For unopened bottles, refrigeration isn’t necessary if you store them in a cool, dark place away from heat and light.
If you’re serious about storing ice wine long-term, consider getting a wine fridge or cellar. These help keep the temperature just right, which is especially important for high-end ice wines.
Refrigerating ice wine doesn’t just help it last longer—it also makes it taste better. Serving it cold brings out its perfect balance of sweetness, which your guests will love.
How Long Does Ice Wine Last After Opening?
Once opened, ice wine can quickly lose its unique floral and fruity flavours because of exposure to air. To fully enjoy its taste, it’s best to drink your opened ice wine within 3 to 5 days.
To keep it fresh for as long as possible after opening, follow these steps:
- Seal the Bottle
Use the original cork or a wine stopper that keeps air out to reduce contact with oxygen.
- Store in the Fridge
Put the sealed bottle in the refrigerator right away to slow down the process of oxidation.
- Use Wine Preservers
Products like argon gas sprays can create a barrier over the wine, keeping it fresh for longer.
Is Freezing Ice Wine a Good Idea?
The simple answer is no. Even though ice wine is made from grapes frozen naturally on the vine, freezing the wine in the bottle can harm its flavour, smell, and texture.
When ice wine is frozen, the sugars and acids can separate, which changes its delicate balance. Plus, freezing can make the wine expand, which might damage the bottle or push out the cork.
If you want to keep an opened bottle of ice wine for a bit longer, the best way to preserve its original taste is to store it in the refrigerator.
Best Wine Cellars for Ice Wine Storage
If you’re a wine collector or sommelier storing premium ice wines, having a good wine cellar is a smart investment. Here are some key features to look for when choosing the right one for your collection:
💡 Temperature Control
A good wine cellar should let you set the temperature between 10°C and 15°C, which is perfect for storing ice wine.
💡 UV-Protection Glass Doors
Look for wine cellars with UV-resistant glass doors. These help protect your bottles from harmful light that can affect the quality of the wine.
💡 Dual-Zone Capability
If you store other types of wine along with your ice wine, choose a dual-zone wine cellar. This feature lets you set different temperatures for different types of wine.
💡 Vibration Reduction
The best wine cellars have features to reduce vibration. This is important because too much movement can disturb the wine and change its taste or quality.
Storing and preserving ice wine correctly is key to keeping its exceptional taste and quality. Using the right storage tools, like a wine cellar with accurate temperature control, can help your ice wine last longer and remain in perfect condition over time. These simple tips will help you make the most of every delicious sip, whether it’s for a celebration or a relaxing evening at home.
