When winter finally rolls into Arizona, even if it is only a gentle dip into the 50s that feels positively arctic by desert standards, there is a noticeable shift in pace. Lighter layers give way to jumpers, evenings feel quieter, and attention naturally turns to wines with a clear sense of season. It is during this time that our team here at EWC often sees renewed interest in ice wine, a rare, winter-born style defined by patience, precision, and nature’s timing.
What Is Ice Wine?
So, what exactly is ice wine? At its simplest, it is an intensely concentrated, richly flavoured wine made from grapes that freeze naturally on the vine. Unlike traditional dessert wines, where sweetness can be influenced by added sugars or fermentation techniques, ice wine’s character comes from natural sugar concentration and impeccable timing.
Winemakers leave grapes on the vines long after the regular harvest so winter’s chill can work its magic. Once temperatures dip to about 17°F (–8°C), the grapes freeze solid. They are picked, often in the middle of the night, and immediately pressed while still frozen.
Why the Process Matters
Because most of the water inside the grape is ice at this point, only a tiny amount of concentrated juice is released. The result is a wine that is vibrant, viscous, and intensely expressive, offering notes of peach, apricot, mango, honey, citrus, and tropical fruit. Despite its richness, well-made ice wine remains beautifully balanced, with acidity that keeps it precise rather than cloying.
A Wine Defined by Rarity
Ice wine has its origins in Germany, where it is known as Eiswein. Today, some of the world’s most respected examples come from Canada, particularly Ontario and British Columbia. A small number of U.S. regions, including New York and Michigan, also produce notable bottlings.
Because yields are extremely low and the harvest window is unpredictable, genuine ice wine is inherently rare. That scarcity, combined with its ability to age gracefully, makes it especially appealing to collectors seeking wines with both character and longevity.
How to Enjoy Ice Wine
For Arizona’s cooler months, ice wine offers a different kind of seasonal pleasure. It is a wine to be poured sparingly and enjoyed slowly, ideally well chilled and served in smaller glasses. It pairs effortlessly with fruit-forward desserts, custards, or fresh berries, and it is equally compelling alongside savoury elements such as blue cheese, toasted nuts, or a thoughtfully
composed cheese board. For those who enjoy contrast, it can also soften the heat of lightly spiced dishes.
Storing Ice Wine Properly
Ice wine’s richness and rarity make proper storage essential. Its balance of sweetness and acidity, along with its ageing potential, deserves a space designed to protect and showcase it correctly. Whether you are refining an existing cellar or planning a new space for special bottles, Team EWC invites you to reach out by phone, email, or text to begin the new year with a bespoke wine storage solution tailored to your collection and your home.
