LIQUID GOLD ICEWINE

Ontario is unique from all other growing regions around the world due to our ability to let our grapes hang on the vines into January to produce exquisite Icewines every winter! While the Icewine harvest can be described as both stressful and exhilarating, the perfect balance between sweetness and acidity in Niagara’s liquid gold is what makes this luscious wine a true Canadian delicacy.

What is the process for harvesting Icewine grapes?

“We base our picking decisions on the flavour development in the berries. Once the crop is ready, we keep our eye on the temperature. In most vintages, we like to pick between -10°C and -12°C when the berries are fully frozen (VQA regulations call for harvesting at minimum of -8°C).”

“Pressing is done immediately when berries are still frozen so only the pure extract is released – one tiny drop from each berry! The wine style is determined by the steps we take after pressing, including settling time, fermentation temperature and the aging vessel. We age our Icewines in a combination of stainless steel and oak barrels for added complexity and texture.”

Katie Dickieson winemaker at peller estates

DID YOU KNOW?

Trius (Hillebrand) produced the first Icewine in Niagara in 1984? And they have produced Icewine EVERY year since!

Peller Estates’ Icewines are sold in fine restaurants and wine merchants around the world and represent the gold standard for Icewine.

Deliciously Different Ways to Experience Icewine this Winter 5

Stir It: While enjoying Icewine on its own is always an indulgent treat, it’s a delicious cooking companion too. Use half a cup to deglaze the pan after sautéing onions and garlic for your favourite squash soup recipe.

Shake It: A tasty Icewine cocktail is a fun way to introduce friends to the pleasures of Niagara’s liquid gold. Try a Blushing Canadian: 1 oz of Cabernet Franc Icewine topped with 4 oz of Trius Brut Rosé.

Sip It: If you prefer your Icewine with a little fizz, pick up a bottle of Peller Estates Signature Series Ice Cuvée or Ice Cuvée Rosé. Both bottles have a dosage of Icewine that delivers a unique burst of flavour.

Toast It: Chef Jason Parsons’ Icewine marshmallows are legendary. Visit the winery during the winter and you can roast them over our fire pits.

Snap Sub-Zero Selfies With It: Peller Estates’ 10Below Icewine Lounge is a fantastic way to experience the chill of Niagara’s Icewine harvest year-round. On our Greatest Winery Tour, you’ll put on a Peller Estates parka as you step inside the igloo-like lounge, constructed from over 13,000 kilograms of ice, and kept at a frosty -10°C. Sample Icewine and snap selfies set against a glistening backdrop.