Although most grapes are harvested in the fall, winemakers may choose to let the grapes hang longer with a special wine in mind. Late harvest wines are produced by grapes that have been left on the vine longer than usual. The reason for this is to allow the grape to ripen and dehydrate, creating a sweeter flavor.

Ice wines are a type of late harvest wines that are left on the vine until they are frozen. The process of making ice wine is quite different from regular wine making. The grapes are left to freeze on the vine and are picked and pressed while still frozen to extract the concentrated juice, leaving behind the ice crystals. The juice should be fermented at a low temperature to preserve the natural flavors of the grapes. Since making ice wine depends on weather conditions, it is not guaranteed wineries will produce an annual vintage.

Late harvest wines are a luxurious treat that requires patience and attention to detail to produce. They are typically served chilled and pair well with desserts, cheese, and fruit.

There are a variety of Missouri wineries that craft their own ice and late harvest wines:

Augusta Winery – 2021 Icewine

Fence Stile Vineyards – Ishq

Montelle Winery – 2018 Vidal Icewine

Sand Creek Vineyard – Late Harvest Chardonel, Late Harvest Chambourcin

St. James Winery – Late Harvest Chardonel, Late Harvest Traminette

Stone Hill Winery – 2021 Late Harvest Vignoles

Wenwood Farm Winery – Sweet Corky

The next time you enjoy a glass of late harvest wine, be sure to thank the winemaker for all their extra hard work to produce it!