Peller Estates Signature Series Riesling Icewine 2019 375ml

Winery Background and History

Peller Estates, established in 1969 by Andrew Peller, is a family-owned winery located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada. With a commitment to crafting premium wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Niagara Peninsula, Peller Estates has become renowned for its Icewines. The winery combines traditional winemaking techniques with innovative practices, contributing significantly to Canada’s reputation in the global wine industry.

Producer and Wine Maker

The Peller family continues to oversee the winery’s operations, ensuring that their legacy of quality and innovation endures. The winemaking team, led by experienced professionals, focuses on expressing the character of the Niagara region through meticulous vineyard management and careful vinification processes. Their dedication has resulted in numerous award-winning wines that showcase the potential of Canadian viticulture.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Riesling grapes for this Icewine are sourced from select vineyards in the Niagara Peninsula, a region characterized by its cool climate and proximity to Lake Ontario. The area’s unique microclimate, with warm summers and cold winters, is ideal for producing Icewine. The combination of well-drained soils and temperature fluctuations allows for the development of concentrated sugars and acids in the grapes, essential for creating balanced and flavorful Icewines.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are harvested at temperatures of -10°C or lower, ensuring they are naturally frozen on the vine. This process concentrates the sugars and flavors. The frozen grapes are pressed immediately, yielding a small amount of intensely sweet juice. Fermentation occurs at controlled temperatures to preserve the delicate aromatics. The wine is then aged in stainless steel tanks to maintain its vibrant fruit character and freshness.

Tasting notes

This Icewine exhibits a bright straw color with aromas of mandarin, candied lemon peel, rosehip, and apple, complemented by hints of molasses. On the palate, it offers a luscious sweetness balanced by fresh acidity, revealing layers of spiced white fruit and exotic freshness. The finish is long and brilliantly balanced, showcasing the wine’s complexity and elegance.

Food & Wine Pairing

Ideal pairings include blue cheeses, foie gras, and rich pâtés, where the wine’s sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory elements. It also complements fruit-based desserts like lemon tarts, peach cobbler, and tropical fruit pavlovas. For a unique experience, serve it alongside spicy Asian dishes, where its sweetness can temper the heat and enhance the flavors.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 8–10°C (46–50°F) in small dessert wine glasses to concentrate the aromas and flavors. Allow the wine to breathe for a few minutes after pouring to fully appreciate its complexity. Avoid over-chilling, as excessively low temperatures can mute the wine’s aromatic profile.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature between 10–15°C (50–59°F) and moderate humidity. This Icewine has excellent aging potential; over 5–10 years, it will develop deeper honeyed notes and a more integrated palate, offering a different but equally enjoyable tasting experience.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Riesling

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

10.5%

Scores

• Decanter World Wine Awards: 95 points