Most Icewine harvests happen at night because the sun starts to melt the grapes on the vine in the morning, diluting the flavor. Icewine grapes need to be harvested at -8C or colder to concentrate the sugars and flavours in the juice, leaving behind the frozen ice crystals. Even the pressing happens in a cold, uninsulated building in the middle of the vineyard.

Nova Scotia Icewines consistently win top honours in national and international competitions. Jost Vineyards 1999 Vidal Icewine was Canada’s Wine of The Year at the 2000 All Canadian Wine Championships.