nOrange wine is a type of wine that has gained popularity in recent years, but it has actually been made for centuries. It is made from white grapes that are fermented and aged with the grape skins, seeds, and stems, which gives it a unique orange or amber color. Orange wine, also known as “skin contact” or “amber” wine, is made using a process similar to red wine production, but with white grapes instead of red.
A beautiful, unusual colour
One of the most striking things about orange wine is its color, which can range from a pale orange to a deep amber hue. The color comes from the extended contact with the grape skins, seeds, and stems during the fermentation and aging process. This extended contact also gives orange wine a fuller body and a more complex flavor profile than traditional white wine.
Orange wine can have a wide range of aromas and flavors, including nuts, spices, and dried fruit. It is often enjoyed as an aperitif or with food, and it pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and cheese.
The origins of orange wine
The origins of orange wine can be traced back to ancient Georgia, where it was made using traditional methods that involved burying clay pots filled with white grapes in the ground for several months. The grapes would ferment and age in the pots, and the resulting wine was a deep amber color.
Today, orange wine is made using a variety of methods, but the basic process involves crushing the white grapes and leaving them to ferment with the skins, seeds, and stems. The length of time that the grapes are left to ferment and age can vary, but it is typically longer than the process used for traditional white wine.
Grape varieties used to make orange wine
One of the benefits of orange wine is that it can be made from a wide range of grape varieties, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. This versatility allows winemakers to experiment with different grape varieties and create unique and interesting flavors.
One of the challenges of making orange wine is that it can be prone to oxidation, which can give it a rancid or off flavor. To prevent this, winemakers must carefully control the temperature and oxygen exposure during the fermentation and aging process.
Despite the challenges of making orange wine, it has gained a devoted following among wine enthusiasts. Many people are drawn to its unique flavor profile and the fact that it is made using traditional methods. Orange wine is often enjoyed as an aperitif or with food, and it pairs well with a wide range of dishes.
If you are interested in trying orange wine, there are a few things to consider.
First, be prepared for a different flavor profile than you might be used to with traditional white wine. Orange wine can have a fuller body and more complex flavors, so it may not be for everyone. It is also important to pay attention to the quality of the wine, as some orange wines may be prone to oxidation or other flaws.
Overall, orange wine is a unique and interesting type of wine that is worth trying if you are looking for something different. Its unique flavor profile and traditional production methods make it a fascinating addition to any wine collection. Whether you are an experienced wine enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of wine, orange wine is definitely worth trying – we’ll be trying out some orange wines in the Secret Wine School this spring – do you dare to joi us?