As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that ice wine can indeed freeze if exposed to extremely low temperatures for an extended period of time. Ice wine is made from grapes that have been left on the vine until they freeze naturally, typically during the winter months. This freezing process concentrates the sugars and flavors in the grapes, resulting in a sweet and aromatic wine.
However, it's important to note that ice wine should not be put in the freezer intentionally. Freezing ice wine can have detrimental effects on its quality and taste. When ice wine freezes, the water content in the wine turns into ice crystals, which can cause the wine to expand and potentially break the bottle. This can lead to a loss of the wine and a mess to clean up.
Furthermore, freezing ice wine can also affect its flavor profile. The delicate flavors and aromas that make ice wine so unique and enjoyable can be compromised when the wine is frozen. The extreme cold can dull the wine's complexity and make it taste overly sweet, losing the balance that is characteristic of a well-made ice wine.
It's also worth mentioning that ice wine does not need to be refrigerated before serving. While some people may prefer to enjoy ice wine on the cooler side, refrigeration is not necessary. In fact, serving ice wine too cold can mask its aromatic qualities and diminish its overall complexity. It is generally recommended to serve ice wine slightly chilled, at around 8-10°C (46-50°F), to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas.
In my personal experience, I have encountered instances where ice wine has accidentally frozen due to being stored in a very cold environment. The result was a less enjoyable drinking experience, as the wine lost some of its distinct characteristics and tasted overly sweet. This only reinforced the importance of proper storage and serving temperatures for ice wine.
While ice wine can freeze if exposed to extremely low temperatures, intentionally freezing it is not recommended. Freezing can damage the bottle and alter the wine's flavor profile. It is best to store ice wine in a cool, dark place and serve it slightly chilled to fully appreciate its unique qualities.