Orange wine: what orange wine is and how it's made
Orange wine: what it is, how it's made, and why it's conquering the wine world
orange wine · natural wines · skin maceration · artisanal wines
In recent years, orange wine has become one of the most interesting trends in the wine world. However, far from being a recent fad, it is an ancient technique that dates back thousands of years.
At Bouquet Xaló, we believe that understanding the origin and production of orange wine helps to better appreciate this unique style, which combines tradition, character, and authenticity.
What is orange wine?
Orange wine is a wine made from white grapes fermented with their skins, just as in the production of red wines.
In traditional white wines, the must is separated from the skins immediately after pressing. In contrast, in orange wines, the must remains in contact with the skins for days, weeks, or even months.
This process provides:
- More intense color, ranging from deep gold to amber or orange.
- More structure and texture on the palate.
- Greater aromatic complexity.
The result is a wine very different from conventional white wine: more gastronomic, deeper, and often with a slightly tannic character.
A millennia-old method
Although today orange wine is associated with natural wines and artisanal projects, its origin is very ancient.
In Georgia, considered one of the cradles of wine, wines of this style have been made for more than 8,000 years. There, grapes are fermented in large clay amphorae called qvevri, buried underground.
In recent decades, producers in Italy, Slovenia, Spain, and other regions have revived this technique to create wines that better reflect the character of the vineyard.
How orange wine is made
The process is simple in concept but requires great precision and care:
-
Harvest
White grapes are picked at their optimal ripeness. -
Skin maceration
After pressing or crushing, the must remains in contact with the grape skins for an extended period. -
Fermentation
Often, native yeasts from the vineyard are used. -
Aging
The wine can be aged in stainless steel tanks, barrels, amphorae, or clay jars. -
Minimal intervention
In many cases, they are made with very few sulfites or even unfiltered.
Characteristics of orange wine
Orange wines often offer very expressive aromatic profiles distinct from classic white wines.
In the glass, we can find:
- Aromas of ripe fruit, orange peel, dried apricot, honey, or herbs.
- More structured texture, with some tannin.
- Balanced acidity and great persistence.
They are very interesting wines to pair with intense or spicy dishes.
Pairing with orange wine
Thanks to their structure, these wines work very well with foods not normally associated with white wines:
- Asian and spicy cuisine
- Aged cheeses
- Mushroom dishes
- Rice dishes and roasted vegetables
- Mediterranean cuisine with herbs
Orange wine at Bouquet Xaló
At Bouquet Xaló, we are passionate about discovering wines with personality, and orange wines are a perfect example of how tradition and innovation can coexist in a bottle.
If you like to explore new wine styles or want to discover something different, orange wine is an experience worth trying.
A different way of understanding wine
Orange wine is not just a different style: it is a way of returning to the origins of wine, respecting the grape, time, and terroir.
Each bottle is a unique expression of the vineyard and the winemaker's philosophy.