

On average, ice wine grapes only yield about 15% of what other types give. There is a very limited supply because of how difficult it is to grow, along with the very low juice yields – meaning a much larger amount of grapes is required to produce one bottle.


Ice wine tends to command high prices, especially in Asia where it is in constant demand. However, this sweetness is perfectly balanced by the right amount of acidity, making it a delight on the palate. A sip brings to mind tropical fruits, and is quite sweet. Enthusiasts praise the complex, intense, and deep flavours. Given the extreme conditions in which the grapes grow, it naturally follows that ice wine has a very unique taste. This was in the highly contested category of best sweet wine over £15 per bottle, proving that Canadian wines are world class products. In 2014, an ice wine from Ontario province even managed to grab victory at the Decanter World Wine Awards. Now, Canadian ice wines are internationally respected, highly sought after, and win plenty of awards. It was only when they attempted to grow ice wine grapes that they found a perfect match for their climate. The industry for this drink, nicknamed “liquid gold”, was born out of necessity Canadians attempted to import and grow European vines, but these were too fragile for their harsh winters and hot summers. Ice WineIce wine is made using grapes naturally frozen in the cold. A niche product, perhaps, but one they have completely mastered. No country does ice wine better than them, and this unique drink – usually pressed from Riesling, Vidal, or Cabernet Franc – makes up the majority of their sales. Ice Wines are Single-handedly Putting Canada on the Wine MapĬanada’s wine exports might not compare in prestige or quantity to the Old World giants, but there is one area where it is king.
