Vidal and Riesling are two grape varieties that are often used to make icewine, a sweet and concentrated dessert wine made from grapes that have been frozen on the vine. While both Vidal and Riesling are suitable for icewine production, they have some distinct differences in terms of flavor profile and growing conditions.
First, let's talk about Riesling. Riesling is a classic grape variety that is known for its high acidity and versatility. It is grown in various wine regions around the world, including Germany, Alsace, and the Finger Lakes region in New York. Riesling grapes have a unique ability to retain their acidity even when fully ripe, which makes them ideal for producing balanced and refreshing wines.
In the context of icewine, Riesling brings its characteristic acidity to the table. This acidity helps to balance the sweetness of the wine, preventing it from becoming cloying or overly syrupy. Riesling icewines often exhibit vibrant citrus flavors, such as lemon and lime, along with mineral notes that add complexity to the wine. The high acidity also contributes to the wine's aging potential, allowing it to develop additional layers of flavor over time.
On the other hand, Vidal is a hybrid grape variety that was created by crossing Ugni Blanc (a grape used in Cognac production) with Rayon d'Or (a grape known for its resistance to cold temperatures). Vidal is particularly well-suited to cold climates and is commonly grown in regions such as Canada and the northeastern United States.
Compared to Riesling, Vidal ripens more slowly and retains good levels of acidity even when fully ripe. This slow ripening process allows the grape to develop intense aromatics and complex flavors. Vidal icewines often showcase tropical fruit characteristics, such as apricot, pineapple, and lychee. These flavors, combined with the grape's natural acidity, create a luscious and exotic profile that is highly sought after in icewines.
In terms of growing conditions, Riesling is more adaptable and can thrive in a range of climates. It can be grown in both cool and warm regions, although it tends to produce its best wines in cooler climates where it can retain its acidity. Vidal, on the other hand, is better suited to colder climates where it can fully ripen without losing its acidity. This is why Vidal is often the grape of choice for icewine production in regions with harsh winters.
The main difference between Vidal and Riesling lies in their flavor profiles and growing conditions. Riesling brings high acidity and citrus and mineral characters to icewine, while Vidal offers slower ripening, good acidity, and intense tropical fruit aromatics. Both varieties have their own unique qualities and contribute to the diverse and exciting world of icewine.