Icewine: Sweet Luxury This sweet, luxurious and intensely flavoured wine is made from grapes that have been left to freeze naturally on the vine. With ideal climatic conditions here in Ontario, we produce some of the finest Icewine in the world, and over 90% of all of Canada's Icewine. Typically harvested between December and February, strict VQA quality standards require that the temperature must be -8°C or colder for both the picking and pressing of the grapes. Since the grapes have been hanging on the vine for so long, they are naturally dehydrated and much of the remaining water in the grapes is frozen, so the remaining liquid is incredibly concentrated, sweet and intense. Liquid gold. Any grape can be used to make VQA Icewine but the most popular varieties used are Vidal, Riesling and Cabernet Franc. Be sure to taste and compare to find your favourite. VQA Icewine is most often used as a dessert pairing but it is so much more versatile. Experiment with rich foods such as foie gras, tangy blue cheese or even spicy foods for unexpected but remarkable combinations. winecountryontario.ca VQA | 2018/19 Travel Guide 11http://www.winecountryontario.ca