What is Orange Wine?

Orange wine might sound like something made from citrus, but it's actually a unique style of white wine with a bold twist. Made by fermenting white grapes with their skins intact, this process gives the wine its signature amber-to-orange hue and imparts a depth of flavour that sets it apart from traditional white wines.

The Process: How Orange Wine Is Made

Unlike conventional white wines, where the grape skins are removed before fermentation, orange wine is produced using a technique that involves extended skin contact. The process typically involves:

• Crushing white grapes and allowing them to ferment with their skins, seeds, and sometimes stems.

• Letting the juice soak for days, weeks, or even months to extract tannins, texture, and a deeper color.

• Fermenting naturally, often in clay amphorae, oak barrels, or stainless steel tanks.

This ancient method of winemaking dates back thousands of years, with strong roots in Georgia, Italy, and parts of Eastern Europe.

What Does It Taste Like?

Orange wine offers a robust and structured flavour profile, often described as a bridge between white and red wines. Depending on the grape variety and production style, you might notice:

• Notes of dried apricots, honey, and citrus peel

• Hints of nuts, tea, or earthy spices

• A richer, textured mouthfeel with light tannins

• Bright acidity balanced by complex aromas

Origins: A Time-Tested Tradition

Although orange wine has recently surged in popularity, it’s far from a new concept. The practice of fermenting white grapes on their skins dates back over 6,000 years to Georgia, where winemakers traditionally used clay vessels called qvevri. This technique was later embraced in regions like Friuli-Venezia Giulia in Italy and parts of Slovenia, where modern producers have revitalized the craft.

How to Enjoy Orange Wine

• Serving Temperature: Slightly chilled (around 55-60°F or 13-16°C) to enhance its bold flavors.

• Glass Choice: A red wine glass works well to allow aeration and bring out the wine’s depth.

• Decanting: Letting orange wine breathe can open up its complex aromas.

Bormioli Rocco 15.25 Oz. Planeo Red Wine Glasses: 4/Case

Bormioli Rocco 18.5 Oz. Electra Red Wine Glass: 4/Case

Luigi Bormioli 19 Oz. Atelier Chianti Wine Glass: 6/Case

Villeroy & Boch 22 Oz. La Divina Bordeaux Wine Goblet: 4/Case

Nella 76 Oz. Wine Decanter

Best Food Pairings

Thanks to its bold character, orange wine pairs well with a variety of dishes, including:

• Aged cheeses and charcuterie

• Grilled seafood and hearty fish

• Spiced or fermented foods (think kimchi, curry, or miso-based dishes)

• Roasted vegetables, mushrooms, and umami-rich flavors

• Lamb, pork, or slow-cooked meats

Orange wine offers a distinctive tasting experience for those looking to explore beyond traditional white and red wines. Its history, bold flavors, and versatility make it an exciting addition to any wine list. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the perfect time to pour yourself a glass and discover what makes this ancient style of winemaking so special.