Tulips in tulips

1 min read

Nectar of the Gods

Sharing the same latitude and similar growing conditions as grape orchards in Canada, yes Canada, ice wine production in Liaoning has become a major and welcome addition to the tourism and luxury travel industry. Why the stop in thought at Canada though? Why not France? Ice wine, predominantly made in Canada is a unique product in that the grapes usually harvested for traditional wine are picked during the frozen winter months. This climatic shock to the grape allows the sugars to intensify, although not suitable for red wine as it is far too sweet, it is perfect for ice wine.

Ice wine is a dessert wine that can be compared to muscat. The straw yellow hue of the wine is a bit more intense than regular white wines. The mouth feel is more thick and luxurious, partly because of the high sugar content and due to the fermentation process. For wine aficionados this product is gaining popularity and can even stand up to port as an aperitif or after dinner drink. The taste is very good, so good that it is hard to believe it is being produced in China so easily and regularly. Chinese vintners have had many ups and downs and are often pushed aside when discussing the wine market, however this product is strong enough to compete with world brands.