If you’re a wine lover, you must have heard of ice wine. This dessert wine is a luxurious treat, made from grapes that have been left on the vine to freeze in the winter. The result is a concentrated, sweet wine that’s perfect for sipping after dinner. While ice wine is traditionally made from white grapes, there are also some excellent red ice wine brands out there that are worth exploring.
Exploring Red Ice Wine Varieties:
Red ice wine is made from red grapes that have been left to freeze on the vine. The process is the same as that used to make white ice wine, but the resulting wine has a deeper, richer flavour. Some of the most popular red ice wine varieties include Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. These wines are often quite expensive, but they’re worth the splurge for a special occasion.
The Ice Wine Experience:
Drinking ice wine is a unique experience. The wine is served chilled, and its sweetness is balanced by a refreshing acidity. Red ice wines are particularly good with chocolate desserts, as the tannins in the wine help to cut through the richness of the chocolate. If you’re looking to try something new, a bottle of red ice wine is a great choice.
Key Takeaways:
- Red ice wine is a luxurious treat that’s perfect for special occasions.
- Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and Syrah are some of the most popular red ice wine varieties.
- Red ice wine is best served chilled and pairs well with chocolate desserts.
Exploring Red Ice Wine Varieties
If you’re a fan of red wine, you might be interested in exploring red ice wine varieties. These wines are made from grapes that have been left on the vine until they freeze, resulting in a concentrated, sweet flavour. Here are a few red ice wine varieties to consider:
The Allure of Vidal and Cabernet Franc Icewines
Vidal and Cabernet Franc are two popular grape varieties used to make red ice wines. Vidal is a hybrid grape that is often used in Canadian ice wines, while Cabernet Franc is a red grape that is commonly used in French Bordeaux blends. Both grapes can produce delicious, complex ice wines with notes of honey, apricot, and caramel.
In Canada, two of the most renowned ice wine producers are Inniskillin and Peller Estates. Inniskillin’s Cabernet Franc ice wine has a deep ruby colour and flavours of raspberry, blackberry, and spice. Peller Estates’ Signature Series Cabernet Franc ice wine is made entirely from Cabernet Franc grapes and has notes of red berries, rhubarb, and pomegranate.
Eiswein: Germany’s Icy Delight
Eiswein, or ice wine, is a sweet dessert wine that is made in Germany. It is made from grapes that have been left on the vine until they freeze, and is known for its intense, concentrated flavour. Eiswein is often made from Riesling grapes, which are a popular grape variety in Germany.
Eiswein is a luxurious treat that is often served with dessert or as a dessert on its own. If you’re interested in trying Eiswein, look for bottles from German producers such as Dr. Loosen or Schloss Johannisberg.
Canada’s Renowned Ice Wine Regions
Canada is known for its cold winters, which make it an ideal place to produce ice wines. Ontario is one of Canada’s most renowned ice wine regions, and is home to many top ice wine producers.
In addition to Inniskillin and Peller Estates, other top Canadian ice wine producers include Jackson-Triggs, Henry of Pelham, and Pillitteri Estates. These wineries produce a variety of ice wines, including red ice wines made from Cabernet Franc and Vidal grapes.
Overall, red ice wines are a delicious and unique treat that are perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious dessert. With so many varieties and producers to choose from, there’s something for every palate and budget. So why not try a bottle of red ice wine today and experience the sweet, concentrated flavours for yourself?
The Ice Wine Experience
If you’re a fan of sweet and dessert wines, then you must try ice wine. This luxurious wine is made from grapes that are left to freeze on the vine, resulting in a concentrated and flavourful wine that is perfect for pairing with desserts and cheeses.
Savouring the Sweetness: Pairing with Desserts and Cheeses
Ice wine is the perfect accompaniment to desserts such as cheesecake, crème brûlée, and fruit tarts. The sweetness of the wine complements the richness of the desserts, creating a perfect balance of flavours. For cheese lovers, ice wine pairs well with strong and creamy cheeses such as blue cheese and foie gras.
Vintage and Harvest: The Making of Ice Wine
Ice wine is made from grapes that are harvested in the winter, when temperatures drop below freezing. The grapes are left to freeze on the vine, which concentrates the sugars and flavours in the grapes. The grapes are then pressed while still frozen, resulting in a small amount of concentrated juice that is used to make the wine. Due to the labour-intensive and weather-dependent process, ice wine is often more expensive than other wines.
Investing in Ice Wine: Prices and Collecting
If you’re interested in collecting ice wine, be prepared to invest in a few bottles. Ice wine is often sold in half-bottles, and prices can range from $20 to $200 per bottle, depending on the producer and vintage. Collecting ice wine can be a great investment, as some vintages can appreciate in value over time. However, it’s important to store ice wine properly to ensure that it ages well and maintains its flavour and sweetness.
Ice wine is a luxurious and delicious wine that is perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent treat. Whether you’re pairing it with dessert or collecting it as an investment, ice wine is sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated red ice wine brands available?
If you’re looking for the best red ice wine brands, there are a few that come to mind. Peller Estates Cabernet Franc Ice Wine is a popular choice, offering notes of wild strawberry jam, ripe rhubarb, and fresh pomegranate. Another great option is Inniskillin Vidal Niagara Peninsula Ice Wine, which is known for its honeyed apricot and peach flavors.
Where can one purchase exquisite red ice wines?
You can find red ice wines at many wine shops and online retailers. If you’re looking for a specific brand, it’s always a good idea to check with the winery itself to see if they have any available for purchase. Keep in mind that red ice wine is often a little pricier than other types of wine, but it’s well worth the investment for a special occasion.
Why does ice wine often come with a higher price tag?
Ice wine is made from grapes that have been left on the vine to freeze, which concentrates the sugars and flavors. This means that it takes a lot more grapes to produce a single bottle of ice wine than it does for other types of wine. Additionally, the process of harvesting the grapes when they’re frozen is much more labor-intensive, which also adds to the cost.
Can you recommend the finest ice wines produced in Canada?
Canada is known for producing some of the best ice wines in the world. In addition to the Peller Estates and Inniskillin brands mentioned earlier, you might also want to try the Jackson-Triggs Reserve Vidal Icewine or the Mission Hill Family Estate Reserve Riesling Icewine. These are all excellent choices that showcase the quality of Canadian ice wine.
What distinguishes ice wine from other types of wine?
Ice wine is unique because of the way it’s made. The grapes are left on the vine to freeze, which concentrates the sugars and flavors. The frozen grapes are then harvested and pressed while they’re still frozen, which creates a concentrated juice that’s used to make the wine. This process results in a wine that’s very sweet and flavorful, with a thick, syrupy texture.
Are there any exceptional red ice wine brands to seek out in the USA?
While Canada is known for its ice wine, there are a few exceptional red ice wine brands produced in the USA as well. One of the most popular is the Chateau Grand Traverse Late Harvest Riesling Ice Wine, which is made in Michigan. This wine is known for its honeyed apricot and peach flavors, as well as its rich, syrupy texture. Another great option is the Standing Stone Vineyards Vidal Ice Wine, which is made in New York and offers notes of tropical fruit and honey.