August 24, 2023 - 0 comments
Orange wine, also known as skin contact wine, macerated wine or amber wine, has gained in popularity in recent years... Far from being just a trend, it's an ancestral tradition that originated in Georgia some 8,000 years ago, before taking root in Slovenia and certain regions of Italy. So what is it? Well, let’s start with the obvious and most important fact, it’s not made from oranges!
The white wines we're used to drinking in the Western world are made from white grapes, pressed directly after harvesting. Orange wine, on the other hand, is obtained by prolonged contact between the juice, skin and seeds of these white grapes. This contact or maceration, which can last from a few days to several months, gives the wine its characteristic orange color and contributes to the complexity of its flavors and aromas.
To put it simply, orange wine is a white wine made in the style of a red wine. Which is often made with contact between the grape skins, seeds and even stems. This contact also extracts the tannins typical of red wines. Macerated wines are indeed more structured than the white wines we're used to.
Depending on grape variety, terroir and type of extraction, tannins will be more or less present, and aromas may vary considerably. The most frequently identified aromatic characteristics are stone fruit (peach, nectarine), floral notes, honey, nuts and spices.
One of the key appeals of natural orange wine is its versatility when it comes to food pairing. Its complex flavors and textures make it a great match for a variety of dishes. It pairs particularly well with dishes that have bold flavors, such as spicy Asian cuisine, hearty stews, and rich cheeses.
Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, if you're looking for something a little different for your next dinner party, give it a try!
Gaumarjos ("Cheers" in Georgian)."
