Research question: How has the migration of wine in Europe evolved during the 21st century?
The Skjálfandi bay area in the north of Iceland, protected by the VíknafjöllandKinnarfjöllmountain ranges, began developing a microclimate in 2035 due to global warming and a considerable increase in average temperatures in the region. This allowed the founders of Norðurvín to start growing vines there in 2059. Today, 31 years later, the winery is the most acclaimed producer of ice wines in the entire world.
Norðurvín’s Vidal Blanc grapevines are reminiscent of the now extremely rare Riesling and Chenin Blanc, which in the last 6 decades, due to the ever-changing and unpredictable weather in continental Europe, have only produced 5 vintages with the right conditions for ice wines. The grapes take advantage of both the now temperate weather and the volcanic terroir, which result in a unique environment for winegrowing in the world.
Our ice wine boasts laser-like acidity, provided by the volcanic soil of the vineyard. Over time, brighter notes of pineapple and lemon curd tend to recede, allowing a slightly richer, deeper character to emerge, with apple and florals lingering over a long, luxurious finish.
