Wine made from fresh frozen grapes (ice) is considered a dessert drink. The principle of its preparation is based on heat treatment of berries and obtaining a more concentrated and sweet drink. The grapes are frozen on the vine, before the fermentation process begins. Ripe and healthy berries are used for preparation; this helps make the drink tasty and aromatic.
The history of the origin of ice wine
Making wine from frozen grapes began in the 18th century in Germany. You can read about this in German documents.In those days, the product was not considered popular; it was produced only by amateur winemakers. But already at the beginning of the 20th century, when the pneumatic press was invented, ice wine became a common drink that was prepared in many production plants. Towards the middle of the 20th century, the product spread to America, and after that its popularity reached Russia.
Technological subtleties
The iced drink is considered weak; it contains only 6% alcohol. In some cases, rates increase to 8%, but no more. In the process of preparing the product, grapes that have been frozen naturally are used. Usually the harvest is harvested when the air temperature reaches 5 degrees below zero. Sometimes frosts do not come for a long time, so winemakers wait for the first opportune moment, while at the same time protecting the berries from mold, insects and birds. It is very important at this moment to take care of the integrity of the grapes so as not to affect the taste of the finished drink.
It is worth noting that for freezing the optimal temperature is considered to be from -5 to -10 degrees below zero. At -15, grapes may become unsuitable for winemaking due to lack of juice. When the crop is harvested, it is crushed and sent to the press. Some countries use a more simplified preparation technique. For example, in Japan, berries are frozen artificially. However, this preparation method does not produce real ice wine.
Important! The fermentation process in this case lasts longer than usual. This is due to the high sugar content in frozen berries. It usually takes about 4-5 months to prepare the product.
Suitable grape varieties
When creating wine, the main emphasis is on the method of processing the berries, and not on their variety. Therefore, there are no clear requirements here. Experienced winemakers advise using the following varieties:
- Riesling.
- Cabernet Franc.
- Chardonnay.
- Kerner.
It is acceptable to use other types of berries.
Quality of the resulting product
Wine made from frozen grapes should be light and sweet. It contains a lower percentage of alcohol, so the drink is considered to be a dessert drink. Today, the drink is produced and sold in many countries, but often manufacturers deceive customers and supply counterfeit products to stores. To avoid making a mistake in your choice, you should carefully study the information on the labels. A quality product is marked iced wine, which translates as “frozen wine”. If there is no such inscription, it is better not to purchase the product.
How to make wine from frozen grapes at home
For home preparation, fresh, recently harvested grapes are used. The process will require about 5 kg of frozen berries, 2 kg of granulated sugar and 6 tablespoons of wine yeast. When all the ingredients are prepared, you can start preparing the dessert drink:
- Remove frozen fruits from the branches. It is important to do this before the ice melts.
- Place the workpiece in a deep container and grind it thoroughly. It is best if the procedure is carried out in a cool and well-ventilated place.
- Pour the juice obtained after pressing into a clean container, pour the yeast into it and cover the container with gauze. Leave the preparation for 2 days. The liquid mixture should ferment and begin to sizzle.
- After this, add sugar to the mixture and thoroughly mix the wine base. You need to wait until the granulated sugar is completely dissolved.
- Put a medical glove on the neck of the container, after making a small hole in it.
- In this form, the wine is sent to a warm room and left for 1 month. During this period it should begin to ferment.
- Strain the product using a rubber tube. It is necessary to try to prevent sediment from getting into the wine itself, otherwise it will begin to ferment again, which will ultimately affect the taste of the ice product.
- Pour the filtered mass into glass bottles and place it in the cellar for 2-3 months. During this time, the wine will finally infuse and acquire a sweet taste.
- When time has passed, the drink is again passed through the filter and the finished product is lowered into the basement for storage.
Important! Store alcoholic products at temperatures from 0 to 6 degrees Celsius. Large indicators can harm the quality of the drink.
The shelf life of ice wine is around 4-5 years. It may decrease if important points were not taken into account during the preparation process.
Some winemakers recommend drinking the finished product in the first year, since later its taste characteristics may change.
How to drink icewine
Ice wine is considered to be a dessert drink, so it is served with light and delicate sweet snacks. It is acceptable to combine it with various types of cheeses, fruits and nuts. This combination helps to truly appreciate the taste of the berry product. Ice wine is served young; it is not customary to age this type of wine for a long time. Although some types of ice drink acquire a more tart and woody taste during aging, which is loved by many wine connoisseurs.
Ice wine is consumed cold. Optimal indicators remain at around 10-12 degrees. The drink is served in glasses used for white or red wine.It is not recommended to mix ice wine with stronger alcohol.
