Let’s say it all together now … I will not pair Icewine with dessert. Hear me out! The biggest complaint about Icewine is that it is too sweet and just leaves your mouth feeling like you have just drank syrup. If you really want to up your game for the party season prepare yourself a platter of Charcuterie with some salami, prosciutto, hungarian and polish sausages. Make sure you also have some cheeses like St Agur, Aged Smoked Cheddar, or even some Oka. When everything comes together it brings out flavours in the wine, the meats and the cheeses that you wouldn’t expect. The main thing is that you don’t end up with a battle of sugar happening in your mouth.
2013 Pondview Vidal Icewine – Vintages 390351 – $18.95 – 200ml – Loaded with flavours of tangerine, peach and honey. Nice balanced acidity but lingers on the palate and in your mouth.
2013 Cave Spring Riesling Icewine – Vintages 447441 – $49.95 – 375ml – Riesling makes great Icewine! Especially if you are part of the “It’s too sweet” crowd. The acidity tends to be a little higher in Riesling Icewine than in Vidal. In the bottle you have bright apple and apricot with nice refreshing acidity leaving your mouth with the taste of honey on the finish.
2013 Henry of Pelham Cabernet Icewine – Vintages 672402 – $39.95 – 200ml – Icewine made from Red grapes is something truly special from Ontario. This is essentially the liquid version of Strawberry Rhubarb pie. The red fruit flavours help to make this wine taste less sweet than it is.
2012 Reif Vidal Icewine – Vintages 544791 – $24.95 – 200ml – Very rarely would I consider an Icewine soft and subtle but this is definitely it. Flavours of raisin, orange and honey with nice balanced acidity. This will be a great match to your St Agur and Applewood Smoked Cheddar.
