Sweetened by the Bitter Winter Winds of Lake Michigan
Since 1893
Nitz wines are a testament to the arduous journey of five generations who dared to tread the path less taken. Each wine is crafted with unwavering determination. Nitz Reserve is the epitome of that determination.
From the harshest conditions come the sweetest rewards.
Our ice wine is crafted with unwavering determination. These liquid gems are the result of relentless effort, high risk, and monumental rewards.
Our vineyard, situated on the frigid 42nd parallel, enjoys perfect conditions for making ice wine. The vines endure the biting winds off Lake Michigan and relentless cold. The Vidal Blanc and Chambourcin grapes are meticulously monitored until the perfect moment when they are ready to give their all. Then, and only then, are they harvested and pressed, their essence captured while still imprisoned by frost.
The result is a sweet liquid masterpiece known as ice wine.
Frozen Perfection: Why Nitz Ice Wine is Worth the Wait
Crafting ice wine is no ordinary winemaking process—it’s a delicate balance of nature, timing, and dedication. At Nitz Wines, we take pride in our Nitz Reserve Ice Wines, which showcase the pinnacle of craftsmanship. But why does ice wine cost more, and what makes it worth the effort? It all comes down to the intricate process that yields a product of unmatched sweetness and complexity.
A Labor of Love with Twice the Flavor
Ice wine is made by allowing grapes to freeze naturally on the vine, which concentrates their sugars and flavors. Harvesting and pressing must happen at the perfect temperature—typically around 15°F—while the grapes are still frozen. This freezing process results in grapes that have less water content, which means we need about five times as many grapes to produce the same amount of wine. But that’s where the magic happens: the juice that’s pressed is packed with concentrated, sweet flavor, resulting in a wine that is richer and more decadent than anything else.
The Price of Precision
The process of making ice wine isn’t just harder on the grapes—it’s tough on equipment and the team working in frigid conditions. The cold can take a toll on machinery, and we have to contend with the natural elements. Birds and deer claim their share of the harvest, often leading to crop losses of up to 20%. Despite these challenges, the result is a premium product that’s truly worth the investment, with each bottle delivering an experience that can’t be replicated.