Why Would A Winery Let Grapes Freeze?

It seems like ice wine is becoming more and more popular which has many people asking the question, just why would a winery let the grapes freeze before harvesting them? The answer of course is a simple one, it makes them sweeter.

Back in 29 A.D. it was common place for grapes not to be harvested until after the first frost in order to get the sweetest grape possible to ferment into wine. This feel out of practice eventually, but is now becoming popular again under the name ice wine.

Made mostly in Germany and Canada these wines are made from grapes that were allowed to freeze while on the vine. When anything freezes from water to wine impurities get pushed to the center since the freezing begins on the outside and works its way in. For grapes this means the sugar gets pushed into the center where it becomes concentrated and perfect for making sweet wine.

While the main portion of the holidays may be over there is still the new year celebrations to enjoy with friends. By packing a ice wine along to the party in your Milano Neoprene Tote you can add a sweet and unique touch to the New Year’s celebration this year.

via Rhino Wino