One of the premier examples of ice wine produced in the Pacific Northwest — particularly in the U.S — continues to come from the cellar of Koenig Vineyards in Caldwell, Idaho, and nearby Williamson Vineyards. These two Snake River Valley farming families partner on many projects, and while 93% of this is ice wine from the 2021 vintage, the blending trials for the traditional profile included 7% of 2014 Riesling ice wine that’s been (and some still is) in Hungarian oak barrels that were new at the time — and legacy project of founding winemaker Greg Koenig who wanted to see how an approach similar to Hungarian Tokaji would work with Idaho Riesling. Aromas of jasmine, honeycomb and light petrol carry onto a palate that spoons out peach and lavender honey. It’s a remarkable effort at an affordable price. It’s also one of three wines Koenig Vineyards, now led by James Nederend, to win a Platinum in 2023. Qualifying awards: Cascadia International (gold), Idaho Wine & Cider Competition (best of show)
Rating: Double Platinum • 97 points
Production: 194 cases
Alcohol: 11.5%
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