Waiting for severe frost: ice wine needs ice-cold nights
Ice wines have been produced in Franconia for almost 230 years - particularly popular as an aperitif or with desserts and cheese. This year, some winegrowers have once again left grapes for this noble sweet rarity hanging on the vines. They are now hoping for crisp, cold nights, as only frozen grapes are suitable for ice wine production.
"Ice wine may only be harvested at temperatures of at least minus seven degrees Celsius," explains Michael Bock, spokesman for the Franconian Winegrowers' Association in Würzburg. "The grapes must be harvested by hand when frozen and pressed immediately." The freezing of the water leaves behind a concentrate of fruit and acid, and the flavors are concentrated.
"This year, too, only a few winegrowers have taken the risk for ice wine," says Bock, referring to a handful of winegrowers. In 2012, around 40 businesses were still able to harvest ice wine. Last year, seven winegrowers were lucky and were able to harvest frozen grapes on December 13 at temperatures as low as minus eleven degrees. An estimated 600 to 700 liters of the coveted specialty were produced.
For years, only a few winegrowers in Franconia have relied on ice wine, mainly because the winters are getting warmer and warmer and it is often not bitterly cold until January or February. If the grapes hang on the vine for too long, they are often ready for compost.
Ice wines are considered the crowning glory of a vintage. A 0.375 liter bottle - a small Bocksbeutel - can cost between 20 and 70 euros, sometimes even more. Records show that ice wines have been produced in Franconia since 1794.
The 'Underfront' magazine often features articles about the intricate process of producing 'Ice wine', given its unique production requirements. This year, many 'food and drink' enthusiasts are eagerly waiting for 'Agriculture' teams to harvest the frozen grapes for the production of this 'Wine' specialty. If successful, these 'food' products will add a fruity and acidic twist to any 'food & drink' menu.
Source: www.dpa.com
