Riesling Ice Wine

What is Riesling Ice Wine? 

Riesling ice wine is a sweet dessert wine made from grapes that freeze naturally on the vine. The Riesling grape, known for its fruity aroma and crisp acidity, makes this wine unique. Freezing the grapes concentrates their sugars, creating a wine that’s very sweet but still refreshing.

Ice wine started in Germany but is now made in places like Canada (especially Ontario), Austria, and cooler parts of the US, like Michigan. Riesling is a popular choice for ice wine because it handles cold weather well and its acidity keeps the wine balanced.

Riesling Ice Wine Production Process 

1. Picking Grapes at Just the Right Moment 

Ice wine grapes stay on the vine until winter when temperatures reach at least -8°C (17.6°F). They’re picked by hand, usually early in the morning, while still frozen. 

2. Pressing Frozen Grapes 

The frozen grapes are pressed right after picking. Since the water inside is frozen, only a small amount of sweet, concentrated juice is extracted.   

3. Fermentation 

Fermenting ice wine takes longer than regular wine because of the high sugar content. It can take months to turn the juice into a golden, sweet wine with rich flavours.

4. Craftsmanship and Patience 

Making Riesling ice wine is hard work—cold weather, small yields, and lots of manual effort. It’s expensive, but for wine lovers, every sip is worth it.

Riesling Ice Wine Flavour Profile 

Riesling ice wine is loved for its perfect mix of sweetness and refreshing acidity. It often has flavours of tropical fruits like mango and pineapple, with hints of citrus like lime or orange zest. You might also notice notes of honey, apricot, or a light floral aroma, depending on where and when it’s made. 

Even though it’s sweet, Riesling ice wine never feels heavy. The natural acidity keeps it light and crisp, making each sip refreshing and enjoyable.

Riesling Ice Wine Food Pairing 

• Desserts 

Think fruit tarts, crème brûlée, or a simple serving of fresh berries. Ice wine complements desserts that aren’t overly sweet, allowing its own flavours to shine. 

• Cheese and Charcuterie 

Pair with soft, creamy cheeses like brie or rich blue cheeses for a heavenly balance of sweet and salty. Add prosciutto or ham to the mix for an extra layer of complexity. 

• Spicy Dishes 

Surprisingly, Riesling ice wine pairs well with spicy food, particularly Thai or Indian dishes. Its sweetness cools your palate while enhancing bold flavours. 

• Savoury Accents 

Foie gras or pâté, often reserved for treat-yourself moments, find their perfect counterpart in the luscious sweetness of ice wine.

Riesling Ice Wine Serving 

• Chill to Perfection 

Serve Riesling ice wine at 8-10°C (46-50°F). A slightly chilled temperature allows the wine’s rich aromas and flavours to fully develop. 

• Use Small Glassware 

This is an indulgent wine meant to be savoured slowly, so choose small dessert wine glasses with a narrow opening to concentrate the aromas. 

• Sip Slowly 

Riesling ice wine is bold, flavourful, and rich. Sipping slowly allows you to fully appreciate every nuance.

Riesling Ice Wine Storing 

Uncorked, Riesling ice wine should be consumed within 3-5 days to retain its flavours and aromas. But what about unopened? 

• Short Term 

Store in a cool, dark place—just like other wines. Keeping it away from direct sunlight and fluctuations in temperature ensures it stays fresh for longer. 

• Long Term 

High sugar content acts as a natural preservative, meaning unopened bottles can age for up to 10 years or more if stored properly at a consistent temperature around 10-15°C (50-59°F). Expect the flavours to deepen and evolve over time.

Riesling Ice Wine FAQ 

Is Riesling ice wine always sweet?

Yes, Riesling ice wine is typically very sweet due to the concentrated sugars from frozen grapes, but its balancing acidity makes it refreshing rather than overwhelming. 

Why is Riesling ice wine so expensive?

The labour-intensive process, limited yields, and specific climate conditions required for production mean that Riesling ice wine carries a premium price.

Can I cook with Riesling ice wine?

Absolutely! Use it to create sauces, drizzle it over desserts, or even mix it into marinades for an extra touch of luxury. Just be sure to save most of your bottle for drinking—it’s that good.