Why Orange Wine is a Hot Trend
Only recently, I found this enigmatic version of white wine while having dinner with my wife at our favorite wine bar in Ningyocho, a lively downtown area in Tokyo. We wanted to start the evening with a glass of sparkling wine, and the owner served one with an orange color. The taste and mouthfeel were like we never had before.
This first encounter with orange wine sparked my curiosity.
A casual Orange Wine-tasting among Friends
I must admit that I completely missed the comeback of Orange Wine, which has been going on for about 30 years and seems to be accelerating. My lame excuse is that I have never noticed the presence of this variety in the wine shops I go to. The red wine section is the largest one, followed by a slightly smaller white wine section. There is a place for rosé wine somewhere in the corner, and I had never noticed the fourth color, orange.
I decided to explore more and share this experience with some wine-loving friends. So, I arranged a small private orange wine-tasting event at my favorite wine bar. Two Japanese friends, one French, one Scot, and one German, wine lovers, all well-traveled and seasoned with red wine, attended. The owner had prepared six different orange wines from Italy, France, Spain, and New Zealand, accompanied by some delicious tidbits from Italian and French cuisine with Japanese ingredients,
This tasting session left all of us a bit confused. We understood that we would need a lot more experience with this variety of wine. The taste and flavor were new to us and didn't quite fit the categories we were used to. Yes, it's a white wine, but with a more complex flavor profile and a different mouthfeel. We found orange is a separate but respectable category besides red, white, and rosé.
Orange wine is becoming a worldwide item
After doing a little internet research, I found that in other parts of the world, the appreciation of this kind of wine is much more advanced. Georgia, in particular, is very active in promoting orange wine and is organizing events in many countries.
In California, orange wine is also catching on, as seen in this Sonoma Magazine article.
In the Beaujolais region of France, one important producer is even launching an orange version of their Beaujolais Nouveau.
China, a newcomer in the international wine scene, presented an orange wine from Ningxia, China, at an event in Hong Kong, which was recognized as the Best Wine from China.
I have found many more links to similar events on an international or local level. Many of these links are to local newspapers or radio stations, and the articles are often hidden behind a paywall. Wherever you are, check your local press.
A Wine with a Fascinating History
Orange wine, also known as amber wine or skin-contact wine, has a rich history going back an estimated 6,000 years. Some experts claim even 8,000 years. Originating in Georgia, a small country in the Caucasus bordering the Black Sea, this ancient winemaking method involves fermenting white grapes together with their skins, resulting in a unique orange hue. This method was also adopted in Slovenia and Northern Italy, where it became popular among winemakers.
However, consumer preference shifted in the 1900s to lighter and brighter white wines.
In the late 1900s, a new trend toward artisanal or natural wines emerged, gaining traction in the last two decades, with more winemakers experimenting with alternative wine-making techniques.
In 2004, David A. Harvey, a legendary wine merchant from London, UK, coined the term "Orange Wine". This classification of wine according to its color is logical and convincing and has caught on worldwide since.
How Orange Wine is Made
Here’s a breakdown of the winemaking process and the essential steps in creating this fascinating beverage:
- Harvesting: The journey begins with selecting ripe white grapes.
- Maceration: Different from traditional white winemaking, where the grape skins and seeds are immediately removed, they remain in contact with the juice for days or even months. Macerating the grapes for such a long time extracts the skin's tannins, phenolic compounds, and vibrant color.
- Fermentation: Yeasts—often indigenous—initiate fermentation naturally. Minimal intervention during this stage allows the character of the terroir to shine through.
- Aging: Post-fermentation, the wine is typically aged in vessels such as stainless steel tanks or oak barrels. In Georgia, a clay amphora called qvevri is still used, like in the old days, and it is often buried in the ground. This stage allows flavors to develop further.
- Bottling: Finally, after careful filtration (or none at all for some artisans), orange wine is bottled and left to rest before making its grand entrance into your glass.
The result is a captivating drink that often presents a cloudy appearance due to its unfiltered nature—a hallmark of natural wines that adds a sense of intrigue.
This winemaking technique has also been used in Italy's Friuli Venezia Giulia or Slovenia's Goriška Brda. Notably, Georgian qvevri wines showcase ancient practices that bring forth rare grape varieties and oxidative styles that are increasingly appreciated by modern palates seeking alternative winemaking techniques.
Taste Profile and Tasting Notes
The taste profile of orange wine is a delightful exploration of flavors that can surprise even the most seasoned aficionados. Depending on the grape variety and the winemaking techniques employed, each bottle presents a unique journey, rich in character and complexity. Here’s what you can expect when indulging in this vibrant beverage:
- Color: First, you'll notice its striking amber hue, which results from extended skin contact during fermentation.
- Aroma: Expect enticing aromas ranging from apricot and citrus zest to earthy notes like dried herbs and tea leaves. The olfactory experience sets the stage for what’s to come.
- Flavor Profile: On the palate, orange wines can evoke a symphony of tastes:
- Citrus Fruits: Bright flavors such as orange peel and lemon are common.
- Tropical Notes: Some may present hints of mango or guava, adding an exotic touch.
- Floral Undertones: Fragrant notes reminiscent of chamomile or jasmine can emerge beautifully.
- Earthy Complexity: Expect savory elements like nuttiness or a subtle herbal edge that creates balance.
- Tannins: One notable difference between orange wine and traditional white wines is the tannin structure. Due to the skin contact during fermentation, tannins in orange wine create depth and an intriguing mouthfeel—something you would rather expect in medium- to full bodied reds.
Food Pairing with Orange Wine
The multifaceted flavor profile makes orange wine an ideal companion for a wide range of food. Enjoy it with dishes such as grilled octopus, roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil, or rich cheeses that complement its complex notes.
The solid structure and rich palate of orange wines allow them to complement a range of culinary delights. Consider some of these suggestions:
- Grilled Meats: The tannic quality of orange wine goes well with the charred flavors of grilled chicken, lamb, or even beef.
- Savory Dishes: Autumn-inspired dishes featuring squash or mushrooms harmonize well with the wine's earthy tones.
- Spicy Foods: The wine's refreshing acidity can offset the heat of spicy dishes, such as Thai, Korean or Indian cuisine.
- Seafood: Grilled octopus, squid, or shrimp are complemented with orange wine’s acidity, which cuts through the richness and enhances flavors.
Serve the wine slightly chilled: This will enhance aroma and texture.
Ultimately, the key to successful pairings lies in balancing the layers of flavor, allowing the orange wine to shine alongside your chosen dish.
Production Areas and Grape Varietals
Where is orange wine made? The short answer to that question is:
Almost in every wine-producing area.
The classic areas are, of course:
- Georgia: This Caucasian country is the birthplace of orange wine. Still used today, the ancient fermentation practice of burying clay vessels (qvevri) underground results in a unique terroir expression. The Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane grape varieties shine in these deep, amber wines.
- Slovenia: The Goriška Brda region is renowned for its skin-contact wines made from indigenous grape varieties like Ribolla Gialla. Here, the winemaking philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention and organic practices, allowing nature to dictate flavor profiles.
- Italy: Particularly in Friuli Venezia Giulia, winemakers produce stunning orange wines that reflect their commitment to artisanal techniques. Varieties such as Pinot Grigio and Verdicchio find an expressive voice here through extended skin contact, creating a delightful intersection of tradition and innovation.
And then, there is the rest of the world. There is probably not a single wine-producing country without artisanal winemakers experimenting with skin-fermented techniques on local varietals. In California and Oregon, it may be Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc; in France, Germany, and Austria, it may be Riesling and even Gewürztraminer.
The Rise in Popularity of Orange Wine
The recent popularity of orange wine can be attributed to an increasing consumer interest in natural and organic wines. Younger generations play an essential role, as they appreciate sustainably produced wine, artisanal methods, and rich history. The organic and minimal-intervention approach has drawn in a dedicated following of wine enthusiasts, leading to a rising number of producers popping up across various regions.
Wine bars and restaurants, especially those focused on natural offerings, have started including an array of orange wines to cater to this demand. This visibility contributes significantly to the beverage's ascendance in contemporary wine culture.
As influencers and sommelier experts frequently share their experiences, this has helped to create a sense of community and spark curiosity around orange wine, making it a regular topic of conversation among wine lovers. Retailers offering niche selections of orange wine online further contribute to its visibility and enable consumers to explore different styles and producers.
However, enjoying orange wine isn't without its challenges. Traditionalists often express hesitance due to its distinctive taste profile—often described as funky or robust compared to typical white wines. While some might view this as an obstacle, others see it as an invitation to redefine what 'good' wine can be.
Choosing the Right Orange Wine for You
If you're intrigued by orange wine and want to make an informed decision when purchasing, keep these essential tips in mind:
- Producer Reputation: Research reputable wineries known for their orange wine production.
- Grape Variety: Consider the specific grape variety and the flavors you enjoy most. Familiarity with certain varieties can guide your choices.
- Region: Explore various regions producing orange wine. It's a lot of fun to explore the unique characteristics based on different climates and terroirs.
It doesn't make sense to give specific recommendations because you will most likely not be able to find them in your local wine shop. The reason is that many talented winemakers are still in the stage of experimenting and perfecting their products and have limited quantities for sale.
I find a different selection on offer whenever I visit my favorite wine shop.