We start this New Year with the ice wine harvest complete. It was on time, abundant, and finished before Christmas. The grapes are pressed and we’re looking forward to getting this newest vintage bottled for you later this year.
In 1987 we produced our very first batch of genuine ice wine. Crafted in the tradition of a German “eis wine”, the Vidal grapes are left on the vine long past the normal harvest and deep into the winter. We wait for the grapes to freeze solid and then early one morning - before the temperature rises above 15 F in the vineyards - the grapes are picked by hand. The frozen grapes are then pressed for many hours to get a small quantity of intensely flavored juice which concentrates sweetness, flavors, and acidity. It's a risky process because of unpredictable weather and wildlife that can ruin an entire crop.
And in the age of a changing climate, the risk is even greater. Last year at this time we were hoping - praying - that the temperatures would drop low enough for just long enough to freeze the grapes and ensure a successful harvest. Fortunately, we got the cold snap we needed in the first few weeks of 2016.
Which means there's already a batch of 2016 Vidal Blanc Ice Wine bottled and ready for sharing.
That makes a pretty exciting start to the New Year even better.
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New Release: Cabernet Franc-Merlot
We are excited to announce the release of our Vintner's Reserve Cabernet Franc-Merlot.
We bring together two classic French varietals to make this perfectly balanced, full-bodied wine. The bold, fruit-forward flavors of this blend pairs well with red meats, hearty soups, and sharp cheeses. It's been a real treat having this wine on the table as part of some of our favorite winter meals.
Enjoy a glass now. Lay down a few bottles to age.
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Dry Riesling
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Hunter's Red
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Cream Sherry
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Thank you to everyone who bought Wine Provisions to support Catskill Mountainkeeper and their mission to protect our soil, water, and air here in New York. If you didn’t get a chance to buy Provisions this last time around, don’t worry: we’ll be offering Wine Provisions again in the near future to support other partners.
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