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 2024 vintage was marked by warm temperatures, low disease pressure for reds, and ideal harvest weather. A relatively mild 2023-24 winter helped set the stage for a strong growing season. Spring arrived early, with warm conditions accelerating budbreak and growth—putting the vintage up to a week ahead of schedule in some areas. Summer continued the warm trend, leading to concentrated flavours and excellent colour development in red varieties. The heat was accompanied by humidity which increased disease pressure, highlighting the importance of diligent vineyard practices. Fortunately, warm, dry weather returned in October, which allowed for optimal ripening, especially for our red wines. Icewine production was especially rewarded in 2024, with multiple ideal freeze events occurring from late December through January. These consistent cold snaps provided several clean harvest windows, allowing us to pick at optimal times for both quality and yield. As a result, 2024 is shaping up to be another standout Icewine vintage, with excellent concentration, balance, and generous volumes.

The world’s first-ever Corvina Icewine bursts forth with a delicate rosé hue and a flavour profile unlike any other. Aromas of white peach, candied cherry, wild strawberry jam, and dried cranberry lead the way, unfolding into whispers of rose petal, orange zest, clove, and dried herbs for remarkable complexity. On the palate, vibrant red fruit and lifted acidity balance its luscious sweetness, creating a harmonious, zesty finish. This rare and special delicacy invites discovery at the table, where it shines alongside prosciutto-wrapped figs and charcuterie, cuts through the richness of aged pecorino, and elevates desserts from vanilla ice cream with balsamic drizzle to strawberry shortcake and dark chocolate.

Technical Information

Appellation: VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake

Blend: 100% Corvina

Brix at Harvest: 36.4^◦Brix

Alcohol: 10.0% ABV

Residual Sugar: 173g/L

Cellar capacity: Now Till 2030+

375ml bottle