As the largest estate producer of Icewine in the world, Pillitteri takes great pride in producing Icewine within the strict VQA standards – a recognition of the highest level of quality attainable. For most wine, grapes are harvested in September and October. However, to produce Icewine the grapes are harvested in December or January when the
temperatures have reached -8 degrees Celsius. Once harvested the grapes are pressed immediately giving a minimal amount of juice that is very concentrated, resulting in a unique dessert wine. Our Family Reserve Icewines represent the highest quality Icewines we produce. They far exceed the minimum VQA requirements for harvest temperature, sugar at harvest, and residual sugar to provide a richer and more complex style compared to our other Icewines.

The 2017 vintage began with a mild January, with precipitation in the region above normal- rain, not snow was a factor for the beginning of the year. February was warm, and above average temperatures, including record- setting days were common. Spring and summer also saw warm temperatures accompanying high volume precipitation.  Southeastern Ontario saw heavy rainfall toward the tail-end of July and beginning of August, however, sunny day interruptions allowed grapes to keep maturing and keep fungal bacterial infections at bay. September saw steady warm and dry conditions, which continues throughout October and November, leading to ideal  conditions during regular harvest.

An alluring golden straw hue provides a peek on the complexity and intensity of this very rare Icewine. Notes of tropical and stone fruits, like pineapple, mango, guava, and honeydew melon fill the nose, along with chamomile and elderflower that speak to Gewurztraminer’s floral nature. On the palate, it shows even more complexity with additional ginger, mango, peach and mild baking spices, and with a lingering vanilla bean finish. The elegant and lush palate is perfectly balanced with acidity fully filling the mouth, contrasting against its intense body and significant weight.

Technical Information:

Appellation: VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake

Blend:100% Gewurztraminer

Brix at Harvest: 37.6^◦Brix

Alcohol:  10.0% ABV

Residual Sugar: 183 g/L

Cellar capacity: Now till 2030+