Ice Wine

What is Ice Wine?

Ice wine is a sweet dessert wine made from grapes that freeze on the vine. This process creates a rich, sweet flavour with bright acidity. It's known for its high quality and is usually made in cold regions where the grapes can freeze naturally.

Ice Wine Production Process

Selecting the Right Grapes 

The first crucial step begins in the vineyard, where specific grape varieties are chosen for their high acidity and suitability for enduring the frost. The grapes are left to naturally freeze on the vine, which usually occurs in late November to January, depending on the region. This step is critical as the prolonged exposure to cold temperatures allows the grapes to dehydrate slightly, concentrating their sugars and flavors.

Harvesting Frozen Grapes 

When a sustained temperature of approximately 17°F (-8°C) or colder is reached, the grapes are ready to be harvested. Harvesting typically takes place at night or in the early morning hours to ensure the grapes remain frozen. Since the yields are often much smaller than for traditional wines, the grapes must be picked quickly and carefully by hand to maintain their quality.

Pressing and Extracting Juice 

The frozen grapes are then swiftly transported to the winery and pressed while still frozen. Specialised presses are used to extract the concentrated juice without melting the ice crystals locked within the fruit. This results in a small yield of intensely sweet, concentrated juice, which is the foundation of ice wine. Due to the low juice yield from frozen grapes, the production costs are particularly high, making ice wine a premium product.

Fermentation Process 

Once the juice is collected, it undergoes a slow, controlled fermentation process. Fermentation typically occurs over several months at low temperatures to protect the juice's delicate flavours and aromas. Winemakers may use stainless steel tanks or oak barrels, depending on their stylistic preference for the wine. The slow fermentation allows the natural sugars to balance with the acidity, creating the wine's signature sweet and tangy profile.

Clarification, Ageing, and Bottling 

Finally, after fermentation is complete, the wine is clarified and sometimes aged further to develop its complex character. Before bottling, it is carefully filtered to remove any sediments, ensuring the final product is crystal-clear and vibrant. 

Ice Wine Regions 

Canada: A Leader in Ice Wine Production 

Canada, particularly Ontario's Niagara Peninsula, is one of the most famous producers of ice wine. Its consistently cold winters provide ideal conditions for crafting high-quality vintages. 

Germany: The Birthplace of Ice Wine (Eiswein) 

Germany, where ice wine originated, remains a key player. Regions like the Rheingau and Mosel are renowned for their exceptional Eiswein, steeped in tradition and quality. 

Moldova: A Hidden Gem for Ice Wine Enthusiasts 

Moldova is gaining recognition in the ice wine world. Its rich winemaking heritage, innovative techniques, and cold winters create ice wines with balanced sweetness and nuanced aromas. 

Other Notable Producers 

Austria, the United States, and China also contribute to the global ice wine market. Each region offers unique variations influenced by local climates and grape varieties. 

Ice Wine Serving

Serve ice wine chilled, but not too cold—ideally at 8-10°C (46-50°F)—to fully appreciate its delicate flavours and aromas. Start by selecting the right glass, such as a tulip-shaped or small white wine glass, which helps concentrate the aromas.

Pour a small amount, as ice wine is typically enjoyed in moderation due to its richness. Before sipping, take a moment to swirl the wine gently in the glass to release its fragrant notes. Then, bring the glass to your nose and inhale deeply to savour its bouquet, which often includes hints of honey, tropical fruits, and citrus.  Take small, slow sips to enjoy its luxurious sweetness balanced by refreshing acidity.

Ice Wine Pairing Ideas

Desserts

• Fruit-Based Desserts: The bright flavours of fruit tarts or pies, such as apple, pear, or berry varieties, align beautifully with the sweetness of ice wine.
• Cheesecake: The creamy texture and delicate flavours of cheesecake perfectly balance the richness of ice wine.
• Chocolate: Opt for white or milk chocolate desserts, as their lighter sweetness harmonises with the wine, avoiding the bitterness of dark chocolate.
• Crème Brûlée: The caramelised sugar and velvety custard in this classic dessert make for a perfect match.

Savoury Pairings

• Foie Gras: The savoury, buttery richness of foie gras creates a sophisticated contrast to the sweet, crisp notes of ice wine.
• Soft Cheeses: Selections like brie, Camembert, or chèvre pair well, providing a creamy texture that complements the vibrant acidity.
• Charcuterie: Thinly sliced cured meats, such as prosciutto or pâté, bring out the complexities in ice wine’s flavour profile.

Fresh Fruits and Nuts

• Crisp Apples and Pears: Their natural sweetness enhances the vibrant fruit notes in the wine.
• Stone Fruits: Peaches, apricots, or cherries are ideal companions, offering a balanced contrast to ice wine’s concentrated sweetness.
• Roasted Nuts: Almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans provide a rich, toasty complement to the wine's flavours.

Unexpected Delights

• Spicy Dishes: The cooling effect of ice wine’s sweetness can balance mildly spicy cuisines, such as Thai or Indian dishes.
• Seafood: Luxurious options like lobster or crab served with a touch of sweetness pair splendidly with ice wine.
• Savoury Pastries: Puff pastries filled with rich cheeses or savoury ingredients can also be a surprising yet delightful companion.

Ice Wine Storing

Start by laying the bottles flat to ensure the cork remains moist, which prevents air from entering and spoiling the wine. Choose a cool, dark place, such as a wine cellar or a temperature-controlled wine fridge, to protect the delicate flavours from sunlight and fluctuations in temperature.

The ideal storage temperature is between 12-14°C (54-57°F), as anything too warm can accelerate aging, while extreme cold could damage the wine. Additionally, aim for a humidity level of 50-80%, which helps maintain the integrity of the cork and prevents it from drying out or cracking.

Don’t Miss Out!

Join the community of wine enthusiasts who know that ice wine isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience. Order ice wine in Australia today and make your next pour unforgettable!