Producing ice wine is as challenging as it is magical. Unlike traditional wines, ice wine is made from grapes that freeze naturally on the vine. During the freeze-thaw cycle, water inside the grapes freezes, separating it from the sugars and other solids, which remain concentrated in the fruit. This process results in a naturally sweet wine with intensely rich flavors.

Harvesting ice wine is a delicate, labor-intensive process. Our team closely monitors weather conditions, waiting for the perfect moment to pick the grapes when they are fully frozen, but not overripe. We are at the mercy of Mother Nature, as the ideal harvesting temperature falls between 15 to 18 degrees Fahrenheit. To preserve the frozen state of the grapes, we often harvest them at night to prevent them from thawing in the morning sun. Immediately after picking, the grapes are pressed while still frozen to extract a small, highly concentrated amount of juice.

Many people wonder why we don’t simply freeze the grapes artificially. While some producers make iced wine by freezing grapes after harvest, the quality and complexity cannot match that of naturally frozen ice wine. The flavors, sweetness, and balance that come from the natural freezing process are truly unmatched.

The yield from ice wine grapes is much lower than regular wine. A ton of ice wine grapes produces just a fraction of the juice that traditional grape harvests would yield. However, the result is worth every drop—each sip of ice wine offers unparalleled depth and sweetness, making the arduous process worthwhile.

A Labor of Love

At Nitz Wines, crafting ice wine is more than a tradition; it’s a passion passed down through generations. With over five generations of grape-growing expertise and a unique location on the 42nd parallel in Michigan, our ice wines reflect the best of our region’s terroir and climate. The combination of Michigan’s exceptional microclimate and our unwavering dedication results in a wine that captures the true essence of winter in every bottle.

Next time you enjoy a glass of Nitz ice wine, savor the flavors, knowing that you’re tasting the result of nature’s perfect timing and our team’s hard work. Every bottle represents the legacy of Michigan’s winters and the meticulous effort behind crafting this extraordinary wine.