If there’s one thing that can make a Canadian winter feel extra special, it’s Icewine—and the 2023 Niagara Icewine Festival delivered a spectacular celebration of this sweet, golden nectar. From exclusive tastings to creative cocktails and a breathtaking gala at Niagara Falls, the weekend was a true showcase of Niagara’s world-class VQA Icewine.
Kicking Off with an Icewine Masterclass
Our adventure began with an Icewine Masterclass hosted by Wine Country Ontario, where we explored the rich history and craftsmanship behind Niagara’s signature dessert wine. With 18 Icewines on the tasting menu, each paired with unexpected savoury, spicy, or sweet bites, we discovered just how versatile Icewine can be.
One of the most memorable pairings? The Cave Spring Vineyards 2019 Riesling Icewine with Malpeque oysters and a Riesling mignonette. The balance of intense sweetness, vibrant acidity, and briny freshness was absolutely next level. Chef’s kiss!
Shaking Things Up: Icewine Cocktails
Next up, we made our way to 124 on Queen’s brand-new “Q Bar” in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake for an Icewine cocktail tasting. Icewine isn’t just for dessert—it makes a fantastic cocktail ingredient, adding a unique burst of fruit flavour and natural sweetness.
The highlight? The “Niagara Icewine Sour”, a brilliantly balanced cocktail that showcased the best of Icewine’s bright acidity and luscious texture. Sign us up for another round!
Cool As Ice: A Gala to Remember
The grand finale of the weekend was the return of the “Cool As Ice” Gala at the stunning Niagara Parks Power Station. This event had it all—VQA Icewine, sparkling wines, premium table wines, incredible local cuisine, immersive exhibits, and even a trip down the historic Power Station tunnel leading to an epic fireworks display at the foot of Niagara Falls.
Talk about a jaw-dropping way to end the weekend! Check out our re-caps below: