As the leaves turn and the evenings draw in, there’s no better time to pour a glass of something golden, rich and a little mysterious… orange wine! Despite the name, these wines have nothing to do with oranges. Instead, their beautiful colour comes from the way they’re made, offering a fascinating bridge between white and red wine styles.
What is Orange Wine?
Orange wine (sometimes called skin-contact white wine) is made from white grapes that are left to ferment on their skins, a process used for red wines. Normally, white wines are made by pressing the grapes and discarding the skins straight away, but with orange wine, the juice stays in contact with the skins for days, weeks, or even months.
This technique extracts colour, texture, and tannins, resulting in wines with remarkable depth, savoury notes and a lovely orange glow.
How Does It Taste?
Orange wines are more structured than typical whites, a result of the extended skin contact. They often show flavours of dried apricot, orange peel, honey, nuts, and subtle spice, all with a gentle tannic grip that makes them incredibly food friendly.
You can expect a wide range of styles too, from fresh and lively examples perfect for curious newcomers, to deeper, more complex styles that will fascinate adventurous palates.
A Bit of History
While orange wine might sound like the latest trend, the technique is ancient. It dates back thousands of years to the country Georgia, where wines were fermented in clay vessels. Many modern winemakers across the world are now rediscovering and reinventing this traditional craft.
Perfect Pairings
Thanks to their texture and savoury depth, orange wines pair beautifully with a wide range of dishes. We recommend trying them with:
• Roast chicken or pork, cooked with autumn herbs
• Charcuterie
• Mature cheeses
• Seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or mushrooms
Why We Love Them
We love how orange wines spark conversation. They challenge expectations, surprise the senses, and bring a touch of autumn warmth to the glass. Whether you’re exploring skin-contact wines for the first time or looking to expand your palate, there’s an orange wine out there with your name on it.
