Reif Icewine - Amazing

There is a long and rich history at the Reif. They are one of the founding Family wineries of the Niagara region of Ontario. Ewald Reif established the vineyards in 1977; opening their doors in 1982. In 1988 his nephew Klaus W. Reif. came to Canada and acquired the winery. 

The winery was founded by Ewald Reif, He sold the winery to his nephew Klaus. Klaus philosophy that 'Great wines start in the vineyard' is the cornerstone of the quality and integrity of Reif Wines. 

Reif Estate Winery has a rich history in Icewine production, they were among the very early pioneers. Their first vintage of Vidal Icewine produced in 1984. This 10 acre vineyard block on our 125 acre estate is still used today to produce their internationally acclaimed Vidal Icewine.

The grapes for Icewine are picked in winter at temperatures of at least -8˚C so that only the highly concentrated juice is pressed from the frozen berries, leaving behind the icy water crystals. The result of these unique climatic conditions is a deliciously sweet wine with exceptional high concentration of sugars, acids and extracts from the grapes with intense flavours and aromas. Although Icewine was first produced in Germany in 1794 Canada is now the largest and best producer of Icewine.

Reif Estate Winery has enjoyed international acclaim for their Icewines for over 20 years. In 1987 our Vidal Icewine was named by renowned Wine Critic, Robert Parker Jr., as one of the year's Top Ten Wines. Since 1984 Reif's Icewines have received over 100 Gold Awards.

AWARD HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Gold Medal at Vin Expo in Bordeaux

Best Icewine Trophy at the International Wine Awards

Gold at the Japan Wine Challenge

Grand Gold at VinItaly

Wine of the Year at the Ontario Wine Awards

Best Sweet Wine Trophy at Cuvée Wine Awards

Gold at Decanter Wine Awards

Gold at International Wine Challenge

Gold at International Wine and Spirits Competition

Icewine and Food

 Cactus Club Cafe

Mornings do not always start out to be perfect. On this particular day, our toaster decided to give up the ghost. We decided to check out new ones at the nearest Canada Tire.

After searching through the kitchen section we finally found the toasters. Canadian tire stores always seem so messy and overbearing with inventory piled everywhere. After mulling over the selection we decided that nothing was quite right for us and left the store. 

To reach Canada Tire there is only one way in and one way out. This route took us by the Southpoint Cactus Club. WE noticed the parking lot seemed pretty empty and they had a very large patio. Outdoor dining here we come!

We parked close to the door. As we approached the restaurant a staff member came out opening the door with a big smile and a greeting. Once inside a second staff member also greeted us and asked for our name and phone number. So far perfect Covid-19 protocol. The staff member escorted us to or table on the patio. She chatted with Barbara as we proceeded.

Shortly after been seated our waitress arrived. She was very cheerful and a delight. We ordered a glass of Synchromesch Riesling 2020 from the Okanagan. A little sweet but otherwise a good wine. The wine list had 6 BC wines. 

Barbara had "The Rocket Salad" Parmesan-crusted chicken breast, arugula, baby gem tomatoes. red onions and lemon caper dressing. The portion was quite large. The salad was quite delicious. The chicken was extremely tasty.

I ordered the Jack Daniel Ribs with Ceasar salad and sea salt fries. Oh so good! The BBQ sauce balanced out the sweetness of the Reisling quite nicely.

As we relaxed and enjoyed our lunch we notice several dishes of Sushi been ordered. The plate looked quite attractive. 

It was an enjoyable lunch on a very nice patio with excellent service.