What Is Orange Wine? A Guide to This Unique Drink

If you haven't heard of orange wine, you're not alone. While most people are familiar with red, white, and rosé wines, orange wine remains a mystery to many. So what exactly is orange wine, and when did it become popular? Let's explore this unique beverage.

What Is Orange Wine?

Despite what the name might suggest, orange wine has nothing to do with oranges. The "orange" refers to its color and flavor profile, which may include fruity notes—but not citrus ones. Orange wine, also known as skin contact wine, is made from white grapes using a distinctive process. Unlike traditional white wine production, where grape juice is separated from skins, seeds, and stems, orange wine keeps these components in contact with the juice during fermentation. This method gives the wine its amber or orange hue and creates rich flavors and textures. The result is a complex wine with notes of dried fruits and nuts, plus a subtle tannic structure that sets it apart from both white and red wines.

Orange Wine Is Not New

Although orange wine might seem like a recent trend, its origins date back around 5,000 years to what is now the Republic of Georgia. This ancient winemaking technique involves fermenting white grapes with their skins, giving the wine its characteristic orange tint and complex flavors. While Georgia remains a key producer, orange wine is now made in Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Austria, France, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand.

Why Orange Wine Is Gaining Popularity

Orange wine's rise in popularity can be attributed to a growing interest in unique and diverse beverages. Wine enthusiasts and sommeliers have revived this ancient technique, appreciating its bold flavors and textural complexity. The trend toward natural and minimal-intervention winemaking has also helped, as orange wine's production methods align well with these principles.

How Orange Wine Is Made

The key difference in orange winemaking is the extended contact between grape juice and skins during fermentation. This process, known as maceration, can last from a few days to several months, depending on the desired outcome.

Grape Varieties Used

Common white grape varieties like Pinot Gris and Chardonnay can be used to make orange wine. Other varieties include Gewürztraminer, Rkatsiteli, and Ribolla Gialla.

The Skin Contact Method

Skin contact winemaking uses the natural compounds in grape skins, seeds, and sometimes stems to add color, tannins, and aroma to the wine. This method creates more complex and textured wines, with the contact time playing a crucial role in defining the final product's characteristics.

Fermentation Vessels

Winemakers often use amphorae or clay vessels for fermenting and aging orange wine. Amphorae, known for their porous nature, allow gentle oxygen exchange that enhances complexity. Clay vessels offer different levels of oxygen permeability. The choice depends on the winemaker's goals and the grape variety used.

Fermentation Techniques

Two main fermentation methods are used:

• Natural Fermentation: Relies on wild yeast present on the grapes or in the environment, resulting in unique, unpredictable flavors.
• Controlled Fermentation: Uses selected yeast and carefully managed conditions to create a more predictable and balanced wine.

Characteristics of Orange Wine

Color

Orange wine typically ranges from golden amber to deep orange, depending on grape variety and winemaking techniques.

Aromas and Flavors

You might detect fruity and earthy aromas, such as ripe oranges, apricots, flowers, or tea. The taste often combines citrus-like notes with a tannic structure similar to red wine, offering complexity that can include dried fruits and spices.

Aging Potential

Like red wines, some orange wines benefit from aging, which allows flavors to mellow and develop. Others are best enjoyed young and vibrant.

Food Pairing Recommendations

• Cheese: Pair with hard, salty cheeses like Roquefort, Parmesan, or Manchego. Creamy cheeses like Brie go well with full-bodied orange wines.
• Main Courses: Heavy, tannic orange wines pair well with lamb or beef. Lighter options complement chicken or fish, while full-bodied versions work with creamy dishes like casseroles.
• Desserts: Sweet orange wines can accompany pies, cakes, ice cream, or crème caramel.

Health Considerations

While no alcohol is completely safe, orange wine—like red wine—contains compounds such as resveratrol due to its production method. Resveratrol has antioxidant properties linked to reduced inflammation and lower risk of heart disease and certain cancers. However, these benefits can also be obtained from foods like grapes, peanuts, and berries without the risks associated with alcohol.

Final Thoughts

Though social media has recently spotlighted orange wine, it's actually an ancient drink with roots in Georgia. Known for its distinctive color and taste, orange wine offers a versatile pairing option for various foods. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just curious, it's worth exploring this unique style.