Cryoextraction
Definition - What does Cryoextraction mean?
Cryoextraction is the means by which grapes are frozen in freezers before they are pressed for their juices. This allows for the pressing of the juices with the highest concentration of sugars. The process was developed in the 1980s to make sweet, dessert wines, especially with grapes from cooler growing seasons that had less sugar content.
WineFrog explains Cryoextraction
Cryoextraction is an artificial way for some producers to make ice wine. This practice is only permitted in regions where there are no specific regulations on how ice wine should be made. Winemakers can press frozen grapes which are frozen artificially and release pure grape nectar. This nectar is then fermented and made into a sweet dessert wine. It is much cheaper than traditional ice wine and can be made in higher volumes.
Traditional ice wine made in the countries of Germany, Austria and Canada follow strict regulations which only permit the making of ice wine with naturally frozen grapes from natural elements. These grapes can only be harvested and pressed in the vineyard at temperatures below 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees Celsius).
