Drinking wine over ice is a controversial practice in the wine world. Traditionally, wine lovers are generally in favor of not adding ice cubes to wine, as it can dilute the flavors and aromas of wine, thus altering the taste experience. Ice cubes can also lower the temperature of the wine to a level where some of the subtle aromas and characteristics of the wine are less noticeable.
However, there are situations where adding ice cubes to wine may be considered acceptable, or even preferable, depending on personal preference and context. For example, in very hot weather, some prefer to enjoy their wine at a cooler temperature, which can be achieved by adding a few ice cubes. This can also be the case for some light, young white wines, which are often served at cooler temperatures than red wines.
If you choose to put ice cubes in your wine, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Use high quality ice cubes: Use ice cubes made with clean water to avoid any alteration of the flavors of the wine.
- Do not overdo it: Add only a few ice cubes to avoid over-diluting the wine.
- Go for appropriate wines: Wines that are less complex in terms of flavors and aromas may hold up better to the addition of ice cubes. For example, light white wines, rosés and sparkling wines might lend themselves better to this practice than full-bodied, aged red wines.
- Consider Personal Preferences: If you find the wine is more enjoyable to drink over ice and it enhances your experience, that's what matters most.
Ultimately, wine is a personal experience, and it's important to enjoy it in the way that works best for you. However, it is also good to respect established traditions and tasting standards, especially if you are sharing your wine with other enthusiasts.