Ice wines

In the realm of frost: the enchantment of ice wine

Ice wine - a name that carries magic and mysticism. A wine made from frozen grapes. In the cold nights of winter. When nature is at rest and the air is crystal clear. A wine shaped by nature itself, a gift of frost. Ice wine is a jewel among wines. A liquid tribute to the beauty of nature and the skill of winegrowers. Explore the facets of this rare wine with us. From its history and careful production to its diverse flavor profiles and food pairings.

A risky game with ice wine

Only the bravest try their hand at this specialty. This is because it requires perfect conditions, from summer to the following spring. Frost in particular is often a problem. This can result in the total loss of the harvest. This makes ice wine and its character all the more celebrated; full sweetness, strong aromas and creamy enjoyment.

Ice wine - these are grapes that have not been over-ripened by the sun. They are harvested in January or even February rather than in the fall. Grapes that take on a concentrated form due to the cold and frost. Over the long ripening period, the grape water transforms into concentrated form and sugar. This does not work with every grape. Manual harvesting is therefore essential. And it is another reason why ice wine is one of the more labor-intensive and price-intensive wines.

A lot of work, the hope of catching the ideal climate and a good deal of winemaking skill. All this is necessary to offer wine lovers and ice wine fans an exquisite experience.

Frozen dreams: what is ice wine?

Ice wine is a noble sweet masterpiece made from grapes that are harvested and pressed while frozen. This method results in a wine that impresses with its intense sweetness and complex aromas. Only under the right climatic conditions, at temperatures well below freezing, can this precious drop be produced.

Ice wine is a rare and exquisite wine that is made for special moments. Whether as the crowning glory of a meal or as a gift for a loved one. Ice wine is always a pleasure. A poem in liquid form. A concentrate of sun, frost and passion. A pleasure that enchants the senses and creates memories that last.

Woven through time and frost: the story of ice wine

The discovery of ice wine is a chapter full of happy coincidences that has its roots in 18th century Germany. Here, winegrowers discovered by chance that a particularly sweet and concentrated wine could be made from frozen grapes. What was once a coincidence developed into a tradition that is still practiced today. Knowledge of this special type of wine spread from Germany. It inspired winegrowers around the world to create their own ice wines. Today, a winery that produces ice wine is regarded as the epitome of quality and innovative spirit in the wine world.

Where the frost kisses the wine: Origin and growing regions

From the traditional wine regions of Germany and Austria to the frosty vineyards of Canada. This is how far the geographical diversity of ice wine production extends. In Germany, grape varieties such as Riesling, Silvaner and the noble Pinot Noir in particular contribute to ice wine production. Canada, known for its ice wines made from Vidal and Riesling, has also made a name for itself in the ice wine world.

Ice wine is produced in the coldest wine regions of the world. Where the winter temperatures drop low enough to freeze the grapes. Germany, Austria and Canada are the best-known countries of origin for ice wine. However, ice wines are also produced in the USA and New Zealand. However, due to the production process, these are only comparable with German products to a limited extent.

The most important growing regions for ice wine in Germany are Franconia, Rheingau, Mosel and Palatinate. In Austria, Wachau and Burgenland are known for their ice wines. In Canada, the province of Ontario is the center of ice wine production.

Ice wine as the crowning glory: the role of the Prädikat wine

Ice wine occupies a special place in the noble realm of wines. As a Prädikatswein, the highest quality level in the German and Austrian wine system, Eiswein represents the zenith of the winemaker's art. This distinction as a Prädikatswein is not only a testimony to its exceptional quality. It is also a reflection of the strict guidelines and high standards of production.

The pillars of the Prädikat: quality and authenticity

As a Prädikat wine, Eiswein is subject to strict criteria. They relate to the origin of the grapes, the production process and the sensory characteristics of the wine. These criteria ensure that every sip of ice wine is an unadulterated representation of its terroir and the skills of the winemaker. Classification as a Prädikat wine requires that the grapes come exclusively from a single wine region. And that they freeze on the vine under natural conditions. Harvesting and pressing takes place at temperatures of -7 °C or colder. This maximizes the concentration of sugar, acidity and aromatic substances in the grapes. A process that demands a high degree of patience and perseverance from the winegrowers. The noble sweet essence that is finally obtained is the result of nights of work in icy conditions.

The heart of the Prädikat: ice wine in the quality category

The hierarchy of Prädikat wines ranges from quality wine to Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese, Beerenauslese (BA) and Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA). Here, Eiswein ranks alongside BA and TBA at the top. This positioning underlines its rarity and the special challenges associated with its production. Eiswein shares the characteristic of noble sweetness with Beerenauslese and Trockenbeerenauslese. In addition, the process of freezing on the vine gives it an extraordinary depth of flavor and complexity.

From the vine to the predicate: the special features of production

The production of ice wine as a Prädikat wine requires a special degree of patience, precision and a willingness to take risks on the part of the winemakers. The grapes must remain untouched on the vine until the first frost. A practice that makes them susceptible to wild grapes, rot and capricious weather. These challenges make the successful harvest of an ice wine a true triumph. The process not only concentrates the sweetness and acidity. It also preserves the full aromatic diversity of the grape. This makes ice wine a special taste experience.

A symphony of flavors: taste and food recommendations

The taste of ice wine is a symphony of flavors. It enchants with a mixture of sweetness and acidity. Ice wine is characterized by its sweet and fruity taste. Aromas of apricot, peach, honey and citrus fruits are typical of ice wine. Depending on the grape variety and vintage, spicy notes or a mineral note can also be added. Its noble sweet complexity makes it the perfect accompaniment for a variety of dishes. Ice wine is a dessert wine that goes perfectly with sweet dishes such as crêpes, tarte tatin or fruit salad. But ice wine is also a delicious accompaniment to savory dishes such as blue cheese or foie gras.

The art of temperature: drinking temperature and storage

The ideal drinking temperature for ice wine is between 10 and 12 degrees Celsius. The complex aromas develop best at this temperature. And the characteristic sweetness harmonizes exquisitely with the lively acidity. Correct storage is also crucial in order to preserve the quality of the ice wine for years to come.

Conclusion: Ice wine as a Prädikat wine - an emblem of excellence

The recognition of ice wine as a Prädikat wine is a tribute to its special quality. And to the artful craftsmanship that goes into its production. It embodies the pinnacle of wine culture. The combination of human skill and natural beauty. As a Prädikat wine, ice wine not only represents the pinnacle of wine quality. It also stands for the passion and dedication that goes into every drop. In the world of noble sweet wines, ice wine is a crowning achievement. An everlasting symbol of elegance and sophistication.

The top ice wine producers

The production of ice wine depends heavily on climatic conditions. This means that the quantity of bottles produced can vary greatly from year to year. Nevertheless, there are some countries that are considered leading producers of ice wine due to their climatic conditions and traditions. Countries known for their high ice wine production. Sorted by the number of bottles typically produced:

1. Canada: Ontario in particular is a world leader in icewine production. Canada's climatic conditions are ideal for ice wine production. This leads to a high and consistent production rate. Canada is known for its ice wines made from Riesling, Vidal and Cabernet Franc.

2. Germany: As the country associated with the invention of ice wine, Germany remains a major producer. Regions such as Rheinhessen, Pfalz and Franconia are particularly known for their ice wine production. Riesling is the most commonly used grape variety.

3. Austria: Austria also produces a significant amount of ice wine. Especially from the Burgenland and Lower Austria regions. Austrian winegrowers often use the Grüner Veltliner and Welschriesling grape varieties for their ice wines.

4. USA: Ice wine is also produced in the USA. Particularly in the states of New York, Michigan and Ohio, where the climatic conditions are favorable for ice wine production. However, production volumes are lower than in Canada and Germany.

5. Italy: In some parts of Italy, especially in South Tyrol, there is a small but fine production of ice wine. The region benefits from the colder winters.

It is important to note that the actual number of bottles produced each year can vary greatly. This is because ice wine production is extremely dependent on the weather. In years with unfavorable weather conditions, production can fall sharply in some regions. Or it may fail altogether.

A dance on the ice: special features of production

The production of ice wine is a complex and risky undertaking. The grapes must remain on the vine well into the winter. When the temperatures drop in winter and the air becomes crystal clear, the time for harvesting the frozen grapes begins. In the early hours of the morning, when temperatures are below -7 °C and the sun has not yet risen. The frozen grapes are hard and shiny, like little gems.

A race against time

Harvesting ice wine is a race against time. The grapes have to be pressed quickly before they thaw and the juice is watered down. In the winery, the grapes are then gently pressed and the juice fermented.

The essence of nature: quality and taste

Ice wines are wines that are characterized by noble sweet flavours with a lively acidity. This balance makes them a special treat. The aromas range from fruity notes such as apricot and peach to honeyed and nutty nuances. This depends on the grape variety used and the climatic conditions of the growing region.

The pillars of production in brief

• Natural frost: The grapes must freeze naturally on the vine. Typically at temperatures of -7°C or colder.
• Late harvest: Harvesting often takes place in the early hours of the morning. This ensures that the grapes are pressed when frozen.
• Selective harvest: Only fully ripe grapes that have survived the first frost are used for the production of ice wine.
• Immediate pressing: The grapes are pressed immediately after harvest while they are still frozen. This makes it possible to separate the concentrated, sugar-rich juice from the ice crystals.
• Slow fermentation: The juice obtained ferments more slowly at lower temperatures than with other wines. This promotes the development of complex aromas.
• High sugar content: The concentration of sugar in the grapes leads to a higher final sugar content in the wine. This provides the characteristic sweetness.
• Low yield: Less wine is produced from a much larger quantity of grapes. This makes ice wine a rare and often expensive product.
• Risk due to weather: The entire process is highly dependent on the weather. Too warm a winter or too early a frost can jeopardize the harvest.
• Strict quality controls: As a Prädikat wine, ice wine is subject to strict quality requirements. This ensures its purity and excellence.

The diversity of vines: Grape varieties and wine types

Classic white wine grape varieties such as Riesling and Silvaner are often used for the production of ice wine. There are also red wine varieties made from grape varieties such as Pinot Noir. These offer a rich palette of aromas and add fascinating nuances to the spectrum of ice wine. Rosé wine and even sparkling wine can also be produced as noble sweet ice wine. This underlines the diversity and flexibility of this unique type of wine.

Passion poured into ice: Conclusion

Ice wine is an expression of pure passion and dedication. From the careful selection of grape varieties to the frosty harvest and artful fermentation. Every step in the production of ice wine is a testament to the love of wine. Whether as TBA or in its classic form, ice wine remains an unforgettable experience for the senses.

Ice wine is truly a winter wonderland in a bottle. A gift of the cold season that warms the hearts of wine lovers all over the world.

Buy ice wine online at VINELLO

The absolute rarity among wines: ice wine is available from our VINELLO mail order wine shop. Simply select ice wine, add it to your shopping cart and choose your payment method. And then sit back, relax and wait for your well and securely packaged wine delivery. Enjoy the exquisite quality or give this wine rarity as a gift.