Wines Niagara Peninsula PondView Estate Winery - Icewine Cabernet Franc - 2019

PondView Estate Winery’s 2019 Cuvée Icewine from Niagara Peninsula is a striking example of Canadian craft in sweet winemaking. This richly hued, luscious red—presumed to be crafted predominantly or solely from Cabernet Franc grapes left to freeze naturally on the vine—exhibits all the decadence expected of a premium icewine. The nose is likely to reveal intense aromas of ripe red berries, wild strawberries, and cranberry, interwoven with subtle hints of raspberry, dried figs and perhaps a whisper of floral or spicy undertones. On the palate, expect vivid sweetness, enlivened by a bright, balancing acidity that prevents the wine from ever feeling cloying, and a persistent, silky texture that lingers harmoniously.

The Niagara Peninsula is Canada’s icewine heartland, benefiting from the unique conjunction of a continental climate moderated by the Great Lakes, in particular Lake Ontario. The region’s cold winters are essential for traditional icewine production, while the relatively long, gentle autumns allow grapes to develop full ripeness and flavour concentration before the deep freeze. The soils are a mix of clay, silt, and limestone, contributing structure and finesse to wines. Niagara’s icewine tradition is still relatively young, yet it is world-renowned for consistently producing some of the most evocative sweet wines, often from both white and red varieties.

Pairing suggestions for a Cabernet Franc icewine such as this are best kept simple to let the wine shine. Its lush berry notes and vibrant acidity make it a wonderful companion for rich, creamy cheeses like blue Stilton or Roquefort, as well as foie gras. Dark chocolate desserts or berry-driven puddings, such as a raspberry tart, can complement the wine’s fruit profile beautifully. For a Canadian touch, try it with butter tarts or spiced pecan pie.

To fully enjoy this wine’s expressive bouquet and velvety mouthfeel, serve slightly chilled at around 8–10°C. Use small dessert wine glasses to focus the intense aromatics, and allow the wine a little time in the glass; as it warms gently, even more layers of flavour will be revealed.