Welcome to the world of ice wine, a dessert wine that is sweet, rich, and concentrated. Made from grapes that are picked at sub-zero temperatures, ice wine is a delicacy that is enjoyed by wine enthusiasts across the globe. In this article, you will discover the best ice wine brands that are available in the market, as well as learn how to select and enjoy this exquisite wine.
When it comes to selecting the right ice wine, there are several factors that you should consider. The first is the grape variety, which can range from Riesling to Vidal to Cabernet Franc. The second is the region where the grapes are grown, with Canada and Germany being the leading producers of ice wine. Finally, you should consider the brand and the price, as ice wine can be quite expensive due to the labor-intensive process involved in its production.
Now that you know what to look for when selecting ice wine, it’s time to explore some of the best brands that are available. From Peller Estate Cabernet Franc Ice Wine to Jackson Triggs Ice Wine Vidal, there are several ice wine brands that are worth trying. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate wine experience with the best ice wine brands.
Key Takeaways
- Ice wine is a sweet, rich, and concentrated dessert wine that is made from grapes picked at sub-zero temperatures.
- When selecting ice wine, consider the grape variety, region, brand, and price.
- Some of the best ice wine brands include Peller Estate Cabernet Franc Ice Wine and Jackson Triggs Ice Wine Vidal.
Exploring the World of Ice Wine
If you’re a wine lover, you may have heard of ice wine, a sweet and luxurious dessert wine made from grapes that have been frozen on the vine. In this section, we’ll explore the world of ice wine, including the winemaking process, prominent ice wine regions, and ice wine varietals and flavours.
The Winemaking Process
The winemaking process for ice wine is unique and requires specific conditions. Grapes are left on the vine until they freeze, which usually occurs in late November or early December in the Northern Hemisphere. The grapes are then harvested and pressed while still frozen, which concentrates the sugar and flavours in the juice. The juice is then fermented and aged in oak barrels to develop complexity and richness.
Prominent Ice Wine Regions
Ice wine is produced in several countries around the world, but some regions are particularly well-known for their ice wine production. Canada, particularly Ontario, is one of the world’s largest producers of ice wine. Germany and Austria are also prominent ice wine regions, with the latter producing ice wine made from the Grüner Veltliner grape variety. New York State in the US also produces ice wine, with the Finger Lakes region being a notable producer.
Ice Wine Varietals and Flavours
Several grape varieties are used to produce ice wine, including Vidal, Cabernet Franc, and Riesling. Vidal Blanc is a popular grape variety in Canada, while Cabernet Franc is known for its brilliant orange-ruby hue but is hard to find outside of Ontario. Riesling is a versatile grape variety that produces ice wine with refreshing acidity and flavours of apricot, honey, and tropical fruit. Ice wine can also have flavours of strawberry, peach, cherry, and pomegranate.
Ice wine is known for its intense sweetness and complexity, with flavours that develop over time. The frozen grapes and unique winemaking process give ice wine a distinct character that sets it apart from other wines. Ice wine also has a higher alcohol content than regular wine, with an average of 8-13% alcohol by volume.
As climate change continues to affect viticultural regions around the world, ice wine production may become more challenging. However, for now, ice wine remains a luxurious and unique dessert wine that is worth seeking out. Prices for ice wine can vary widely, with some bottles costing hundreds of dollars. Still, if you’re a wine lover looking to try something new and exciting, ice wine is definitely worth a try.
Selecting and Enjoying Ice Wine
Ice wine is a special occasion wine that is perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and complex flavour. It is a dessert wine that has a syrupy texture and a golden colour. It is also expensive, with a rising price tag due to its popularity among wine enthusiasts.
Pairing Ice Wine with Food
Ice wine pairs well with desserts such as cheesecake, chocolate, and fruit tarts. It also goes well with cheese, particularly blue cheese. Seafood dishes such as lobster and scallops also complement the flavour of ice wine.
Serving Suggestions
Ice wine should be served chilled, but not too cold. It is best to serve it at around 8-10°C to bring out its full flavour. When opening the bottle, be careful not to shake it as this can disturb the sediment.
Notable Ice Wine Brands
Two of the most well-known ice wine brands are Inniskillin and Peller Estates. Inniskillin is a Canadian ice wine brand that has won numerous awards for its high-quality ice wines. Peller Estates is also a Canadian brand that produces a range of ice wines, from dry to sweet. Other notable brands of ice wine include Pillitteri Estates and Henry of Pelham.
When selecting an ice wine, it is important to consider the alcohol content. Ice wines typically have a higher alcohol content than regular wines due to the concentration of sugars. It is also important to note that ice wine is a dessert wine and should be enjoyed in moderation.
In conclusion, ice wine is a delicious and complex wine that is perfect for special occasions. When selecting an ice wine, consider the occasion, the flavour profile, and the alcohol content. Pair it with desserts or seafood dishes and serve it chilled to fully enjoy its flavour. With notable brands such as Inniskillin and Peller Estates, you are sure to find an ice wine that suits your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which labels are considered the top contenders in the ice wine market?
If you’re new to ice wine, there are a few brands that are great for beginners. Peller Estates, Inniskillin, and Jackson-Triggs are all well-known and respected brands that produce high-quality ice wine. However, if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, there are some lesser-known brands that are worth exploring. Some of the top contenders in the ice wine market include Vidal Ice Wine by Pillitteri Estates Winery, Riesling Ice Wine by Reif Estate Winery, and Cabernet Franc Ice Wine by Henry of Pelham.
How much might one expect to pay for a quality bottle of ice wine?
The price of ice wine can vary greatly depending on the brand, the region, and the vintage. On average, you can expect to pay around $50-$100 for a 375ml bottle of quality ice wine. However, some of the more exclusive and rare ice wines can cost upwards of $500 per bottle.
Could you tell me about some exceptional Canadian ice wines?
Canada is known for producing some of the world’s best ice wines. Some exceptional Canadian ice wines include Inniskillin Vidal Ice Wine, Peller Estates Cabernet Franc Ice Wine, and Henry of Pelham Riesling Ice Wine. These ice wines are known for their rich, complex flavours and are sure to impress even the most discerning wine connoisseur.
What are the standout ice wine producers in the USA?
While Canada is known for producing some of the world’s best ice wines, the USA also has some standout producers. Some of the top ice wine producers in the USA include Standing Stone Vineyards, Boundary Breaks, and Chateau Chantal. These producers are known for their commitment to quality and their ability to produce exceptional ice wines year after year.
Which ice wine has received the highest accolades?
In recent years, Inniskillin has received numerous accolades for their ice wines. In 2018, their 2016 Riesling Ice Wine was awarded a gold medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards. Additionally, their 2016 Vidal Ice Wine was awarded a gold medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition.
What are the unique varieties of ice wine available?
Ice wine is typically made from grapes such as Riesling, Vidal, Cabernet Franc, and Gewurztraminer. However, there are some unique varieties of ice wine available that are worth exploring. Some of these include Ice Cider, which is made from frozen apples, and Ice Wine made from other fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries.