Canada and Germany are two of the top producers of ice wine in the world. Both countries have a long-standing tradition of producing this sweet and luxurious wine. However, there are some key differences between Canadian and German ice wines that make each unique.
Climate and Geography
One of the main factors that differentiate Canadian and German ice wines is the climate and geography of each region.
Canadian Ice Wine
- Canada has a colder climate compared to Germany, which is essential for the production of ice wine.
- The main regions for ice wine production in Canada are in Ontario and British Columbia.
- The vineyards in these regions are typically located near large bodies of water, such as Lake Ontario or the Okanagan Lake.
- The colder temperatures allow the grapes to freeze on the vine, concentrating their sugars and flavors.
- The Canadian Icewine Regulations specify that the grapes must be harvested at a temperature of -8°C (17.6°F) or lower.
German Ice Wine
- Germany also has a relatively cold climate, but it is not as extreme as Canada.
- The main regions for ice wine production in Germany are the Mosel, Rheingau, and Franken regions.
- The vineyards in these regions are situated on steep slopes, which allows for good drainage and optimal sun exposure.
- The grapes in Germany are typically left on the vine until they freeze naturally, which usually occurs in late autumn or early winter.
- German ice wine regulations require that the grapes have a must weight of at least 110° Oechsle, which is a measure of sugar content, and must be harvested at a temperature of -7°C (19.4°F) or lower.
Grape Varieties
Another difference between Canadian and German ice wines lies in the grape varieties used.
Canadian Ice Wine
- Canada predominantly uses Vidal Blanc, a hybrid grape variety, for its ice wines.
- Vidal Blanc is known for its high acidity, which balances the sweetness of the wine.
- Other grape varieties used in Canadian ice wines include Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and Gewürztraminer.
German Ice Wine
- Germany primarily uses Riesling as the main grape variety for its ice wines.
- Riesling is a versatile grape that can retain high acidity even at low temperatures, making it ideal for ice wine production.
- Other grape varieties used in German ice wines include Sylvaner, Scheurebe, and Gewürztraminer.
Production Techniques
The production techniques employed in Canada and Germany also contribute to the differences in their ice wines.
Canadian Ice Wine
- In Canada, the grapes are usually harvested by hand to ensure only the frozen grapes are picked.
- The grapes are then pressed while still frozen, resulting in a small amount of concentrated juice.
- The pressing process takes longer due to the frozen grapes, resulting in lower yields.
- The fermentation of Canadian ice wines often occurs in stainless steel tanks to preserve the fruity flavors.
German Ice Wine
- In Germany, the grapes are also harvested by hand, but they are often left to partially dry on the vine before freezing.
- The partially dried grapes undergo a longer fermentation process, which can result in more complex flavors.
- German ice wines are typically aged in oak barrels, adding additional depth and complexity to the final product.
Taste and Aromas
The differences in climate, grape varieties, and production techniques give Canadian and German ice wines unique taste profiles.
Canadian Ice Wine
- Canadian ice wines are known for their intense sweetness balanced by high acidity.
- They often exhibit flavors of tropical fruits, honey, and citrus.
- The acidity provides a refreshing and crisp finish.
German Ice Wine
- German ice wines tend to have a lighter and more delicate sweetness compared to Canadian ice wines.
- They frequently feature flavors of peach, apricot, and honey.
- German ice wines have a vibrant acidity that contributes to their overall freshness.