How To Drink Ice Wine

Welcome to the world of ice wine, a delicious and luxurious treat for wine enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the fascinating process of making ice wine, learn how to serve and drink it, and even discuss some possible food pairings. Prepare yourself for a unique wine adventure, perfect for impressing friends at your next wine tasting party.

What is Ice Wine?

Ice wine (or Eiswein in German) is a type of dessert wine made from grapes that have been frozen on the vine before they are harvested. The freezing concentrates the sugars and flavors in the grapes, resulting in an intensely sweet and rich wine. Ice wine is mainly produced in regions with cold winters, such as Germany, Austria, and Canada.

How is Ice Wine Made?

The winemaking process for ice wine is quite unique and requires precise timing and care. The grapes are left on the vine well past the traditional harvest season to allow them to freeze. Once the grapes have frozen, they are picked by hand and quickly pressed before they have a chance to thaw. This extraction process forces out the sweet juice while leaving most of the ice behind. The resulting juice has a high sugar content, and it takes longer for the fermentation process to complete.

Key Characteristics of Ice Wine

• Sweetness: Due to the high concentration of sugar, ice wine is known for its intense sweetness and bright flavors.
• Acidity: Despite its sweetness, ice wine still maintains a high level of acidity, which is essential to balance the flavors and prevent it from being too cloying.
• Body: Ice wine has a fuller body compared to other dessert wines, offering a luxurious mouthfeel.
• Aging Potential: Many ice wines can be aged for several years, allowing them to develop deeper and more complex flavors over time.

Serving and Drinking Ice Wine

Now that we have an understanding of what ice wine is and how it’s made, let's explore how to serve and enjoy it properly.

Serving Temperature

Ice wine should be served well chilled, ideally between 40-45°F (4-7°C). This temperature helps to accentuate its natural acidity and balance the sweetness.

Glassware

Smaller, tulip-shaped glasses are recommended for serving ice wine. This shape helps concentrate the fruity aromas at the top of the glass, enhancing the aromatic experience.

Pouring and Serving Size

Given its intense sweetness and high sugar content, it's common to serve ice wine in small servings, typically around 2 ounces per glass. This smaller serving size allows your guests to savor and enjoy the wine without it becoming overwhelming.

How To Drink Ice Wine Example:

Ice Wine Food Pairing Ideas

Although ice wine is enjoyable on its own, it can also be delicious when paired with the right foods. Here are a few pairing ideas that bring out the flavors of ice wine while providing a delicious contrast or complement to specific dishes:

• Fruit-based Desserts: Due to its fruity and sweet nature, ice wine pairs exceptionally well with fruit-based desserts such as tarts, cobblers, or sorbets.
• Cheeses: A nice contrast to the sweetness of ice wine can be achieved by enjoying it alongside strong, aged cheeses like stilton, gorgonzola, or even a sharp cheddar.
• Foie Gras: The richness and fattiness of foie gras are wonderfully balanced by the acidity and sweetness of ice wine, creating a luxurious pairing.
• Spicy Dishes: The sweetness of the ice wine works to tame the heat of spicy foods, making for an interesting and enjoyable contrast.

With this newfound knowledge of ice wine, you're now ready to impress your friends and delight your taste buds with this fantastic dessert wine option. Don't forget to share the joy by introducing others to the unique world of ice wine, and explore other wonderful wine options here on Black Wine Club. Cheers to exquisite tastes and fine wine discoveries!