Inniskillin Icewine Cabernet Franc 2022

The Niagara Peninsula, located in Ontario, Canada, is renowned for its production of premium ice wines. The region's cool climate and mineral-rich soils—comprising gravel, sand, and clay deposited by retreating glaciers—are ideal for viticulture. The moderating effects of Lake Ontario and the Niagara River create stable temperatures during the growing season and into the winter months, making it one of the few places globally where ice wine can be consistently produced. The combination of freezing temperatures and rich terroir contributes to the unique intensity of flavours found in Niagara ice wines.

Made entirely from Cabernet Franc, a red grape variety well-suited to the cool climate of Niagara, this ice wine highlights ripe red berry flavours with exceptional sweetness and a vibrant acidity. Cabernet Franc ice wines are celebrated for their striking balance of decadence and freshness, with a style that emphasises fruit intensity and aromatic complexity.

The grapes are harvested at an optimal temperature of -10°C, ensuring the water in the berries freezes, concentrating the sugars, acids, and flavours. After pressing the frozen grapes, the viscous juice is cold-settled for seven days to remove impurities. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at cool temperatures over 21 days, preserving the wine's fresh fruit characteristics. The wine is then filtered and bottled, retaining its bright and vibrant qualities.

This vintage offers a nose rich with aromas of ripe strawberries, raspberries, and rhubarb, which seamlessly transition to the palate. The wine is lusciously sweet yet balanced, with a rich texture and refreshing acidity that prevents it from being cloying. The finish is long, with lingering red fruit notes.

This ice wine is a great companion to a variety of desserts, including strawberry shortcake, rhubarb tart, or dark chocolate mousse. It pairs equally well with savoury options such as blue cheese. Serve chilled at 8–10°C.