Ice wine: the essence of a grape!

If you prefer a dry wine, then ice wine is not for you.  Sorry, but there are no dry ice wines available. If there were, it would be very very strong and not really drinkable. Ice wine is a delicious dessert wine produced from grapes that are frozen below 8 degrees while still on the vine and the grapes have to be picked when the climate reaches that perfect temperature.  It takes approximately thirty to thirty-five bunches of grapes for every half liter of ice wine that is made. That is why ice wine can be quite expensive.

The grapes that are used for ice wine are Vidal Blanc, Riesling, Gewurztraminer, and Cabernet Franc. Sparkling ice wine is also available. Canada has the perfect climate for producing ice wine. Austria and Germany produce Eiswein as they call it, but not consistently every year. If you get a chance, surf the web for an Ice wine festival. It’s a great way to try some great ice wines on a winter vacation.

I love to pair ice wine with lobster or scallops and its just as perfect after dinner by itself.

Here are some of the selections of ice wines that we offer here at Ninos:

Pillitteri Estates Riesling Ice Wine- Canada

Aromas of lemon rind, melon and walnut with flavors of pineapple and granny smith apple.

The Pillitteri family has been growing grapes in Niagra for more than half a century.

Jackson Triggs Vidal Ice Wine- Canada

Tropical aromas of papaya, mango and apricot with a long lasting silky finish.

Pelee Island Cabernet Franc Ice Wine- Canada

Made from 100% Cabernet Franc grapes. This wine has a beautiful amber color with aromas of honey and peaches.

It may be cold out right now, but spring is just around the corner. What a great time to get out and explore some of these great ice wines.

Cheers,

Simone