Tasting notes:

From a small vineyard in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Lakeview produces this highly regarded icewine from this little-known variety, Vidal, a hybrid between vinifera Ugni Blanc and Rayon d’Or, developed by Seibel in the late 19th century to combat phylloxera. Vidal has great winter-hardiness and grows particularly well in very cold climates, giving high sugars whilst retaining good acidity. This lovely expressive icewine displays a pale gold colour with orange highlights, and aromas and flavours of peach, apricot, marmalade and honey. The palate is sweet, but not luscious, quite light in body with racy acidity and a hint of astringency giving added structure. An intriguing wine to pair with Philadephia cheesecake or soft goats’ cheeses. (Patricia Stefanowicz MW)