Santa loves any confections that fuel his energy on Christmas Eve. But are the usual liquid offerings of Bailey’s, Cabernet, Pinot Grigio, shots of tequila, or milk swilled with those candies and cookies making him yawn from boredom? This is the year to help good ‘ole Saint Nick maintain his “let’s get this job done before dawn” mantra while guaranteeing an extra gift under the tree for you next year. Come December 24, it’s all about Ice Wine from the Finger Lakes region of New York, the drink that Santa has been waiting for!
Ice Wine is a naturally sweet dessert wine made from grapes that were frozen on the vine. Legend has it that a German winemaker “discovered” ice wine (eiswein) upon returning to his vineyard after his grapes had frozen on the vine. Instead of giving up, he harvested the grapes, crushed them for their concentrated juice, and proceeded with the fermentation process. The result was a dessert wine, now heralded around the world for its sweet, intense palate profile. Although Germany, Austria, and Canada are countries mostly known for Ice Wine, winemakers in the Finger Lakes, the newest darling of the wine world, are producing the luscious, sure-to-please beverage.
This past summer, I had the opportunity to visit the Finger Lakes to swirl, sip, and savor its many outstanding wines from a myriad of wineries. From whites such as Riesling and Chardonnay to reds including Cabernet Franc and Lemberger, winemakers in this cool climate region are crafting wines that not only pair with a variety of foods, but reflect the unique terroir of a land hidden by glaciers for thousands of years.
One of their signature wines is Ice Wine, a delightful and refreshing complement to each of the desserts I enjoyed there. Served chilled, the residual sugar in the wine matched (and never overpowered) the flavors of dishes such as a decadent chocolate cake, caramel topped flan, and cherry cheesecake. If you’ve never tasted an Ice Wine with your favorite dessert, you must; your mind (and palate) will be changed forever!
As a participant in a recent Twitter chat with winemakers from the Finger Lakes, I was sent as samples, three bottles of memorable Ice Wine, each produced from a distinct variety. You’ll want to look for these wines in your favorite wine shop, but in the event they are not available, ask for choices similar in style and price.
Standing Stone Vineyards 2014 Riesling Ice
Dried apricots, honey, marmalade, lemon, apple, pear, and candied citrus are just a few of the descriptors that identify this creamy and mouthwatering Ice Wine. Grapes were picked after the leaves were off the vine and placed in cold storage (less than 0 degrees Fahrenheit) until they were frozen solid. Juice was pressed and fermentation monitored consistently to “maximize the rich fruit flavors and opulent mouth feel and structure.” Pair this beautiful wine with dark chocolates, a fruit torte, aged cheddars or blue cheese. (Residual sugar: 20%, Alcohol level: 13.5%) Cost is $24.99.
Lakewood Vineyards Glaciovinum 2013
The hardy Delaware grape, introduced to those in Delaware, Ohio in 1849, was frozen cryogenically for this “distinctly American Finger Lakes” ice wine. Aromas of tropical fruits such as orange, banana, vanilla, and a hint of ginger and tastes of sour apple, tangerine, almond and honey were dominant in this delicious wine. Pair a glass with warm chocolate cookies, apple cake with a dollop of sweet vanilla ice cream, or dates dipped in chocolate! Ahhhhh! (Residual sugar: 19.2 %, Alcohol level: 11.9%) Cost is $14.
Thirsty Owl 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Ice Wine
Harvesting Cabernet Sauvignon grapes at 4 a.m. in temperatures around 14 degrees Fahrenheit was the beginning to this rich, flavorful, and sweet ice wine. Ripe cherries, raspberries, strawberry jam, and a drizzle of honey aromas burst from the glass and led me down the path to more of the same on the palate. Santa will appreciate its lush, layered, and fresh profile as he takes another bite of chocolate covered cherries or home-made sugar cookies decorated with icing and sprinkles. (Residual sugar: 16%, Alcohol level: 14%) Cost is $39.95.
It’s time to create a luscious cake, bake Santa’s favorite cookies, or arrange an assortment of candies on a special plate…Ice Wine from the Finger Lakes will pair with each. Thanks to that extra kick of sugar in each sip, Santa will be able to circle the globe in no time! And your home will be his first and favorite visit next year…
Cheers to the merriest! ~ Cindy
