Ice cubes in wine, once a practice relegated to novice drinkers or sweltering summer days, now spark passionate debate among wine lovers and experts alike. But why add ice cubes to wine? How should it be done properly, and with which types of wine is it acceptable? Let’s break down this refreshing yet controversial trend.
The main reason some people choose to add ice cubes to their wine is simple: freshness. On hot summer days, a glass of white, rosé, or even slightly chilled red wine can be extremely refreshing. Ice cubes allow the wine to cool quickly without waiting for it to be refrigerated beforehand.
For some drinkers, it is also a matter of taste. A wine that is too warm can feel heavy and lose its vibrancy, whereas a well-chilled wine highlights its fruity aromas and lightness.
Putting ice cubes in wine requires certain precautions to avoid altering the taste of the precious beverage. Here are a few tips for those who want to give it a try:
Use stainless steel or stone ice cubes: Unlike water ice cubes, these alternatives won’t melt or alter the taste of the wine by diluting it.
Pour the wine first, then add the ice cubes: This makes it easier to control the quantity of ice cubes, and avoids over-chilling or diluting the wine.
Prefer young, light wines: Rosé wines, young white wines and certain light red wines (such as a Beaujolais) are better suited to this practice. More complex, aged wines deserve to be tasted at the recommended temperature to fully appreciate their subtleties.
Not all wines lend themselves to the addition of ice cubes. Here is a list of the wines for which this practice is most commonly accepted:
Rosé wines: In summer, a chilled rosé is always appreciated. Adding a few ice cubes can make it even more thirst-quenching.
Light white wines: Dry, fruity white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, respond well to the addition of ice cubes.
Sparkling wines: Some sparkling wines, notably Proseccos and certain rosé Champagnes, can be served on the rocks. In fact, brands such as Moët & Chandon have even launched cuvées specially designed to be consumed “on the rocks”.
While the addition of ice cubes to wine may cause purists to cringe, it nevertheless has its place among modern drinking practices. By following a few simple rules, you can refresh your wine without sacrificing its taste. So why not give it a try at your next summer aperitif? After all, the pleasure of wine tasting also lies in discovery and experimentation.
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