If winter had a signature sparkling wine, this would be it. Peller Estates Ice Cuvée is decadent, frosty-edged, and irresistibly luxurious: a traditional-method sparkling wine enriched with a splash of Canada’s iconic Icewine. Effervescent, opulent and silky, it delivers winter comfort and celebration in equal measure.
Peller Estates Ice Cuvée, Producer
Founded in 1969 by Andrew Peller, Peller Estates is one of Canada’s most respected family-run wineries and a driving force behind the global reputation of Ontario Icewine. Based in the Niagara Peninsula, the estate benefits from a unique microclimate shaped by Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment: conditions that allow grapes to freeze naturally on the vine, making Icewine possible on a scale found almost nowhere else in the world.
The Peller family has spent decades mastering both traditional sparkling winemaking and the delicate, labour-intensive craft of Icewine production. Ice Cuvée is one of their most celebrated innovations: a sparkling wine that blends French technique with distinctly Canadian identity. A small dosage of Vidal Icewine transforms the base wine, adding depth, richness and signature winter sweetness while maintaining finesse.
Peller’s approach is rooted in sustainability, careful hand-harvesting, and meticulous temperature control. The result: expressive wines that capture the cold-climate purity and wild beauty of Niagara.
Peller Estates Ice Cuvée, Terroir & Winemaking
The grapes for Ice Cuvée (primarily Chardonnay and Pinot Noir) come from vineyards moderated by Lake Ontario’s cooling effect, which extends the growing season and protects vines from extreme temperature swings. Chalk, clay and glacial till soils contribute minerality and freshness.
The base wine is crafted using the traditional method, with secondary fermentation in bottle. Extended lees ageing adds creaminess, biscuit tones and fine mousse. Once disgorged, the wine receives its signature addition: a carefully measured dose of Vidal Icewine, made from grapes naturally frozen at –8°C or colder before pressing.
This tiny addition transforms the wine, adding exotic fruit richness, honeyed texture and a unique interplay of sweetness and acidity, while keeping the sparkle brisk, elegant and refreshing.
Peller Estates Ice Cuvée, Tasting Notes
Pale gold with a stream of fine bubbles. Aromas of pear, baked apple, apricot, honeycomb and white blossom unfurl alongside brioche and delicate citrus. The palate is where Ice Cuvée truly shines: creamy mousse, ripe orchard fruits, candied ginger, tropical hints and a whisper of Icewine sweetness, all lifted by refreshing acidity. The finish is long, silky and lightly toasted, with a luxurious winter warmth.
Food Pairing Suggestion: Triple-Cream Brie with Honey & Toasted Almonds. The gentle sweetness of Ice Cuvée melts beautifully into the richness of triple-cream cheese, while the bubbles refresh and lift every bite.
Did You Know?
To legally be called Icewine in Canada, grapes must freeze naturally on the vine and be pressed while still frozen — no shortcuts. Peller has been one of the world’s most awarded Icewine producers for decades.
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