Gastronomer

Icewine

 

One of my absolute favorite wines for the spring and summer are icewine. Icewine (its German name Eiswein) is a dessert wine produced from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine. Canada and Germany are the world's largest producers of ice wines. About 75 percent of the icewine in Canada comes from Ontario. Only the healthiest grapes survive until the opportunity arises for an ice wine harvest, which sometimes doesn't occur until after the New Year. This gives icewine its characteristic refreshing sweetness balanced by high acidity.

 

Characteristics

 

Refreshing due to high acidity. Medium to full body, with a long lingering finish. Pairs nicely with soft cheeses such as a French chambert.

 

Tasting notes

 

The bouquet is reminiscent of peach, pear, dried apricot, honey, citrus, figs, caramel or green apple depending on the varietal. The aroma of tropical and exotic fruits such as pineapple, mango, or lychee.