Merritt XTC Iced Wine – Pomegranate Bliss in Every Sip

Updated → September 2025

Experience the indulgent sweetness of Merritt XTC Iced Wine, a unique dessert wine infused with natural pomegranate flavor. This locally crafted treat from New York offers a burst of fruity bliss in every sip. From its playful name to its rich flavor profile, discover why this sweet wine has become a beloved indulgence for those seeking something truly different.

The Rise of Sweet Fruit Wines

In recent years, sweet fruit-infused wines have surged in popularity, offering a fun and flavorful alternative to traditional dry wines. These wines embrace bold fruit flavors and sweetness, appealing to those who enjoy the taste of ripe fruit in their glass. Merritt XTC Iced Wine fits perfectly into this trend. With its natural pomegranate infusion, it exemplifies how wineries are crafting dessert-style wines that are approachable, whimsical, and bursting with fruit character.

This movement toward fruit-forward sweet wines caters to both new wine drinkers and seasoned enthusiasts looking for something different. Instead of the complex tannins of reds or the crisp dryness of many whites, fruit wines deliver immediate pleasure through sweetness and aroma. They bridge the gap between classic wines and cocktails, often enjoyed chilled or even blended with ice for a refreshing treat. Merritt XTC Iced Wine, with its juicy pomegranate notes, showcases how delightful this style can be, transforming the concept of wine into a luscious dessert experience.

Ice Wine vs Iced Wine – What’s the Difference?

At first glance, “iced wine” might sound like the famous ice wine made from naturally frozen grapes. However, Merritt XTC Iced Wine is a different treat altogether. Traditional ice wine (no “d”) is a rare dessert wine produced by harvesting grapes that froze on the vine, yielding tiny amounts of ultra-sweet nectar. In contrast, Merritt’s “iced wine” is named for its serving style and playful attitude rather than its production method. It’s a sweet grape wine blended with pomegranate flavor, meant to be served well-chilled (or even as a slushy), hence the term “iced.”

This distinction is important for wine lovers. If you’re expecting the intense apricot and honeyed notes of a Canadian icewine, XTC will surprise you with a vibrant burst of pomegranate instead. The two share a dessert sweetness, but Merritt XTC Iced Wine is more about bright fruit flavor and fun. Think of it as a contemporary twist on dessert wine – where ice wine is a product of nature’s frost, iced wine is a product of creative winemaking. Both are indulgent, but XTC Iced Wine is decidedly more playful, approachable, and easy on the wallet, making the joys of dessert wines accessible to a wider audience.

Merritt Estate Winery – A Local NY Favorite

Merritt Estate Winery, the producer of XTC Iced Wine, is a family-owned winery in Western New York with a rich history and a reputation for fun, flavorful wines. Established in 1976 in the Lake Erie wine region, Merritt was one of the early pioneers of New York’s farm winery movement. Over the decades, they’ve become known for producing award-winning wines and hosting popular annual festivals (like their famous Strawberry Festival). Among their lineup, Merritt XTC Iced Wine stands out as a beloved signature offering, often drawing curious tasters at the winery’s events.

Merritt Estate Winery’s approach combines traditional winemaking with a flare for creativity. While they produce classic varietals and blends, they’ve captured many hearts with their sweet and specialty wines. Local wine enthusiasts often refer to Merritt XTC and its sister wine “Bella Rosa” as must-try delights when visiting the winery. This local popularity has helped XTC gain a bit of legendary status in the region. If you’re exploring New York wines, Merritt’s portfolio shows how diverse and fun the state’s wines can be – from dry reds to fruity concoctions – and XTC Iced Wine exemplifies the latter with its unique pomegranate twist.

What Makes Merritt XTC Iced Wine Unique?

As a dessert wine, Merritt XTC Iced Wine carves out its own niche. Firstly, it features a natural pomegranate flavor, which immediately sets it apart from more common dessert wines like ports, sherries, or even ice wines that focus solely on grape characteristics. This infusion of pomegranate gives XTC a tangy fruit kick that most traditional dessert wines don’t have. In essence, it’s part wine and part fruit cocktail — a hybrid of winemaking and mixology.

Another aspect that makes XTC unique is its balance of sweetness and drinkability. Many dessert wines are rich, syrupy, and reserved for slow sipping in small doses. Merritt XTC, while certainly sweet, has a lighter body and a refreshing quality thanks to the tartness of pomegranate. This means you can enjoy it in a variety of ways — as a chilled after-dinner drink, poured over ice, or even as a component in creative cocktails. It’s a dessert wine that doesn’t demand a formal occasion; instead, it invites you to enjoy it casually, whether on a cozy night in or at a summer barbecue. The versatility and novelty of flavor make Merritt XTC Iced Wine a standout choice when you want something out of the ordinary.

In comparison to other fruit-infused wines, XTC holds its own with genuine craft. Some fruit wines or wine coolers on the market can taste artificial or overly sugary. Merritt XTC prides itself on using natural flavor and quality winemaking techniques, so the result is a flavorful wine that still tastes authentic and well-made. It’s a dessert-type wine that even those who “don’t normally like wine” often end up loving, precisely because it’s so refreshingly different and fun.

Tasting Notes – Flavor Profile and Ingredients

One sip of Merritt XTC Iced Wine and you’ll understand the allure. It greets the nose with a burst of ripe fruit – think ripe pomegranates, cherries, and a hint of grape jam. The color in the glass is a pretty blush-red, reminiscent of pomegranate juice or a rosé, reflecting the fruit inside. On the palate, XTC is decadently sweet, but not cloying, thanks to a zing of tanginess from the pomegranate. Flavors of fruit punch, red berries, and a touch of citrus dance together, making each taste both sweet and slightly tart.

The wine is crafted from a base of grape wine blended with natural pomegranate flavor. While the winery doesn’t divulge their exact recipe, one can imagine they start with a sweet white or red grape (perhaps native varieties like Concord or Niagara, common in NY sweet wines) and then introduce pomegranate juice or extract to infuse that unmistakable flavor. The result is a balanced profile: the grape wine provides body and alcohol, while the pomegranate adds its signature lively fruitiness. The finish is smooth and juicy, leaving a lingering taste of candied fruit on your tongue.

Alcohol-wise, Merritt XTC Iced Wine is moderate. It typically sits around the 10–12% ABV range, lower than many table wines. This lower alcohol content, combined with high residual sugar, gives it a luscious mouthfeel without the burn – perfect for those who prefer their drinks on the gentler side. Overall, the flavor profile of XTC is often described as “dangerously delicious” – it’s so packed with fruity goodness that it’s easy to forget you’re drinking wine!

The Story Behind the “XTC” Name

Many people wonder about the intriguing name XTC. Say it out loud and you’ll catch the play on words – it sounds like “ecstasy.” This is very much intentional. Merritt Estate Winery gave this wine a cheeky moniker to emphasize just how pleasure-packed it is. The tongue-in-cheek tagline that often accompanies Merritt XTC Iced Wine is “So good it should be illegal!” – a playful reference to the idea of forbidden delight. By branding the wine as “XTC,” Merritt instantly signals that this is not your ordinary vino; it’s something a bit edgy, fun, and perhaps even a little mischievous.

The bold naming has paid off in making XTC memorable. Customers will ask for “that XTC wine,” recalling the name easily after trying it once. It creates a conversation starter at parties and tastings – people are curious: Why the name? What does it mean? Upon hearing the backstory, they usually smile and nod in agreement after a sip – it really is delightfully indulgent. This kind of branding is a testament to Merritt’s approachable, unpretentious style. They aren’t afraid to have a sense of humor and make wine enjoyable for all. The name XTC, along with the vibrant label art (often featuring bold colors or quirky designs), captures the spirit of the wine itself: lively, joyous, and a little bit daring.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

To get the best out of Merritt XTC Iced Wine, serve it well-chilled. Pop the bottle in the refrigerator for a few hours before pouring, or even give it a brief rest in the freezer (20-30 minutes) to achieve a nice cold snap. The chilly temperature accentuates the refreshing aspect of the pomegranate flavor and prevents the sweetness from overwhelming your palate. Use a small wine glass or even a champagne coupe to serve – it adds a bit of elegance to this playful wine.

When it comes to food pairings, Merritt XTC shines brightest alongside desserts and treats. Consider serving it with a slice of rich cheesecake drizzled with pomegranate syrup, or with dark chocolate truffles; the wine’s sweet fruitiness complements creamy and cocoa-rich flavors beautifully. It also pairs nicely with fruit-based desserts like raspberry tarts, chocolate-covered strawberries, or a simple bowl of mixed berries and whipped cream. For a contrast pairing, try a salty nibble: a few shards of aged parmesan or a creamy blue cheese can create a sweet-salty dance on your taste buds that’s unexpectedly delightful.

Don’t be afraid to enjoy XTC Iced Wine on its own as the dessert. In fact, it makes a wonderful finish to a meal all by itself. You can serve small pours (3–4 ounces) as a sweet finale. And if you’re enjoying a summer afternoon, XTC can even be a fun aperitif over ice with a sprig of mint for garnish. The key is to serve it cold and in moderation, allowing its rich flavors to take center stage without overwhelming the experience.

Cocktail Ideas with Merritt XTC

One of the most exciting aspects of Merritt XTC Iced Wine is its versatility in creative drinks. Thanks to its intense pomegranate flavor and sweetness, XTC can double as a cocktail mixer or base. Merritt even sells an XTC Wine Slush Mix, highlighting how perfect this wine is for frozen concoctions. If you have a blender at home, try making your own wine slushie: combine XTC Iced Wine with a handful of ice and a splash of club soda, then blend until you get a frosty, adult “slurpee.” The result is a refreshing frozen treat that’s a hit at parties – a perfect way to cool down on a hot day.

Not into slushies? XTC works great in cocktails, too. For a simple spritzer, pour one part XTC Iced Wine over ice and top with one part sparkling water or prosecco; garnish with a twist of orange or a few pomegranate arils to emphasize the fruit. It creates a bubbly, lower-alcohol cocktail that’s incredibly easy to sip. You can also get inventive by adding a shot of vodka or rum to XTC and shaking it with ice – strain into a martini glass and you’ve got a pomegranate wine martini with a punch.

Another idea is to use XTC as the sweet element in a sangria. Mix a bottle of Merritt XTC with some red or rosé wine, add chopped fresh fruits (orange slices, apples, berries), and let it infuse for a few hours. The XTC brings the sweetness and fruitiness, so you won’t need to add sugar – just a squeeze of citrus to balance it out. Serve over ice and enjoy a pomegranate-infused sangria that will have your guests asking for the recipe. With a little creativity, you’ll find that XTC Iced Wine is more than just a wine – it’s an ingredient for fun!

Where to Buy Merritt XTC Iced Wine

If you’re in the Western New York area, getting your hands on Merritt XTC Iced Wine is as easy as stopping by your local liquor store. In fact, Union Wine and Liquor in Cheektowaga, NY proudly carries this product. You can visit their store at 2675 Union Road, Cheektowaga or order through their website for pickup/delivery if available. At Union Wine & Liquor, you’ll typically find XTC Iced Wine in the 375 mL half-bottle size, which is perfect for sampling or gifting. (They may also stock the larger 750 mL “Merritt XTC Pomegranate” version for those who fall in love and want more.)

Beyond Union Wine and Liquor, Merritt XTC Iced Wine is often available at other wine shops across New York, especially those that feature local New York State wines. If you’re visiting Merritt Estate Winery in Forestville, you can of course buy it straight from the source – and maybe even taste it as part of a wine flight. Some online retailers that specialize in regional wines might also ship it, but availability can vary. The good news is that XTC has become popular enough that many retailers in the Buffalo/Niagara region keep it in stock. Just look in the “Dessert Wines” or local wines section, and ask for Merritt XTC by name. As soon as the clerk hears “XTC,” they’ll likely know exactly what you’re after!

Pricing and Value

Merritt XTC Iced Wine offers a delightful experience at a reasonable price point. At Union Wine & Liquor, the 375 mL bottle is priced around $15.99, making it an affordable little luxury. Considering the craftsmanship and natural ingredients that go into the bottle, it’s a good value for a dessert wine. (For context, traditional ice wines often cost twice as much for a similar small bottle, due to their labor-intensive production.) Here, you’re getting a fun, high-quality sweet wine without breaking the bank.

The larger 750 mL bottles, when available, usually run in the $19.99–$21.99 range, which is again quite fair for a specialty wine of this nature. Because XTC is so versatile, you truly get your money’s worth. One half-bottle can provide several dessert servings or act as the base for a pitcher of cocktails. In other words, it can entertain a group, not just an individual. Fans of the wine often comment that the enjoyment they get from it – the smiles, the “wow, this is good!” moments – far exceeds its modest price tag.

When evaluating the value, also consider the support for local business. Buying Merritt XTC Iced Wine means you’re supporting a New York winery and local retailers like Union Wine and Liquor. You’re indulging in a product that has local heritage and community behind it. That added intangible value – knowing your purchase contributes to a family winery’s legacy – makes each sip a bit more meaningful. All things considered, Merritt XTC Iced Wine is a sweet splurge you can feel good about.

Conclusion – Indulge in Merritt XTC Iced Wine

In the world of wines, Merritt XTC Iced Wine stands out as a delightful rebellion against the ordinary. It’s a bottle that promises enjoyment from the moment you pop the cork – the vibrant pomegranate aroma, the glistening ruby pour, and the sweet, euphoric taste that follows. Whether you’re a seasoned wine aficionado looking for a novel treat or someone who just loves a sweet drink, XTC invites you to indulge your senses. It’s the kind of wine that turns an evening at home into a special occasion, or a gathering of friends into a memorable toast.

Ready to experience it for yourself? Imagine pouring a chilled glass and taking that first sip of pomegranate bliss. It’s hard not to smile. Merritt XTC Iced Wine has a way of bringing joy and a touch of whimsy to any moment. So go ahead – treat yourself to this local treasure. Enjoy it responsibly, share it with friends, and savor the unique twist it brings to the table. After all, it’s “so good it should be illegal”… but luckily for us, it’s perfectly legal and waiting for you to enjoy. Cheers to discovering something deliciously different!