How to Serve Ice Wine: A Guide to Choosing the Right Bottle
Ice wine, a dessert wine of unparalleled sweetness and complexity, deserves to be treated with the respect it commands. Serving it properly elevates the experience from pleasant to truly memorable. This guide will walk you through choosing the right bottle and ensuring its optimal presentation.
What Makes a Good Ice Wine?
Before we delve into serving, let's clarify what constitutes a quality ice wine. The key lies in the grapes themselves. Ice wine is made from grapes that have frozen on the vine, concentrating their sugars and flavors. This process results in a wine with intense sweetness, vibrant acidity, and a unique texture. Look for bottles specifying the grape variety (e.g., Riesling, Vidal Blanc, Cabernet Franc) as different grapes yield distinct flavor profiles. Consider the producer's reputation and any awards or critical acclaim the wine may have received.
Choosing the Right Bottle: Considering Grape Variety and Style
The best ice wine for you depends on your palate and the occasion.
Riesling Icewine: Often considered the quintessential ice wine grape, Riesling produces wines with intense fruit flavors (apricot, peach, honey) balanced by a refreshing acidity. These wines pair beautifully with fruit tarts, crème brûlée, and spicy cheeses.
Vidal Blanc Icewine: This grape yields ice wines with rich, luscious flavors of pear, quince, and honey, often with notes of floral aromas. Its fuller body makes it an excellent pairing for rich desserts like chocolate cake or pecan pie.
Cabernet Franc Icewine: A less common but increasingly popular choice, Cabernet Franc ice wine offers a surprising twist. Expect notes of dark fruit, spice, and even a hint of earthiness, making it a unique pairing with dark chocolate or blue cheese.
How to Serve Ice Wine: Temperature and Glassware
Serving temperature significantly impacts the enjoyment of ice wine. Serve it well-chilled, but not ice-cold. The ideal temperature is generally between 38-45°F (3-7°C). Serving it too cold numbs the palate, masking the delicate nuances of the wine; too warm and the sweetness becomes cloying.
The glassware is equally important. A small, stemmed glass is best. A white wine glass or even a dessert wine glass will work perfectly. The smaller size helps to concentrate the aromas and maintain the wine's temperature.
What Foods Pair Well with Ice Wine?
The intense sweetness of ice wine requires careful consideration when pairing with food. Sweetness and acidity are key factors.
- Desserts: Fruit tarts, crème brûlée, fruit cobblers, chocolate desserts (dark chocolate works particularly well with richer ice wines), and pecan pie are all excellent choices.
- Cheese: Blue cheeses, goat cheeses, and some aged cheeses can complement the sweetness and acidity.
- Other pairings: Foie gras, gingerbread, and even some spicy Asian cuisine can create interesting contrasts and complements.
How Long Does Ice Wine Last?
Ice wine, when properly stored, can age beautifully. Once opened, it’s best enjoyed within a day or two, as it is susceptible to oxidation. Store unopened bottles in a cool, dark place.
How Much Ice Wine to Serve Per Person?
Because ice wine is such a rich and concentrated beverage, a small serving is often sufficient. A 2-ounce (60 ml) pour is typically ample per person.
What are some common Ice Wine Myths?
Myth: All Ice wines taste the same. Reality: The grape variety, terroir, and winemaking techniques significantly affect the flavor profile.
Myth: Ice wine is only for special occasions. Reality: While it’s certainly a celebratory wine, it can be enjoyed any time you desire a decadent treat.
Conclusion: Embracing the Ice Wine Experience
Serving ice wine properly allows you to fully appreciate its exquisite qualities. By selecting the right bottle, chilling it to the perfect temperature, and pairing it with complementary foods, you elevate the occasion and create an unforgettable experience. So, raise a glass (a small one!) and savor the magic of ice wine.
