2012 Pillitteri Cabernet Sauvignon Icewine Reserve Niagara

Icewine is made by harvesting the (over)ripe grapes in frosty weather, at Pillitteri at -8 degrees or colder. Then the grapes are pressed frozen. Fermentation is complex and can take up to 6 months due to the very high sugar content. The yield is very small, usually 10 times less than for a normal harvest. The wines are therefore made in relatively small quantities and the production process itself is expensive. The Reserve range is Pillitteri's absolute top Icewine which comes from their oldest and best vineyards. Here, the selection, both in the field and in the cellar, is extreme and only the best is judged worthy to carry the title Reserve Icewine. Furthermore, 20% of the must is fermented in oak for additional complexity and depth. The wine has a ruby red hue and the aroma reveals raspberries, cranberries and lime peel. The flavour is explosive with notes of raspberry tart, preserved cherry, violet and vanilla. Delicious intense sweetness but nicely balanced by natural acidity. Full-bodied with a long aftertaste.