Orange Wine: Past, Present & Future

Orange wine has been gaining popularity in recent years, yet it remains a mystery to many wine enthusiasts. Despite its name, this intriguing beverage isn't made from oranges at all. Let's dive into the world of orange wine and explore its rich history, unique production methods, and growing presence in the wine industry.

What is Orange Wine?

Orange wine, also known as amber or skin-contact white wine, is a type of wine made from white grapes using red wine-making techniques. The result is a fuller-bodied wine with a darker color and more complex flavors than traditional white wines.

The origins of orange wine can be traced back to ancient Georgia, around 6000 BC. Archaeologists have discovered grape seeds in large clay pots, believed to be early winemaking vessels. These vessels, known as amphorae or qvevri, were often buried underground or kept above ground for fermentation.

How is Orange Wine Made?

The key difference in orange wine production lies in the extended skin contact:

1. White grapes are harvested.

2. Instead of immediately pressing the grapes, they are left in contact with their skins for an extended period, typically between a week and a year.

3. This prolonged skin contact results in greater extraction of flavour compounds, tannins, and colour from the grape skins.

4. The duration of skin contact significantly affects the wine's flavour profile, tannin structure, and colour.

The Revival of an Ancient Technique

While orange wine production nearly disappeared due to modern winemaking techniques focused on quantity over quality, it has experienced a resurgence in the past two decades. Pioneers like Josko Gravner in Friuli, Italy, have been instrumental in reviving this ancient method since 1998.

Gravner's story is particularly inspiring. After achieving acclaim for his conventional wines, he travelled to California seeking inspiration. Upon his return, he boldly decided to revert to traditional winemaking methods, much to the initial dismay of his customers. This move ultimately paved the way for other producers to explore orange wine production.

Orange Wine Today

In recent years, orange wine has been gaining traction in the wine world:

- Wine bars, independent retailers, and restaurants increasingly feature orange wines on their menus.

- In the UK, orange wine is becoming more mainstream, with major retailers like Majestic Wine stocking their first orange wine in December 2020.

- As wine consumers become more adventurous and curious, the popularity of orange wine is expected to continue growing.

The Future of Orange Wine

As we develop a new wine culture that embraces diversity and experimentation, orange wine is poised to become an increasingly important part of the wine landscape. Its unique flavours and ancient heritage appeal to those seeking something different from conventional white and red wines.

Learn More

For those interested in delving deeper into the world of orange wine, Simon Woolf's book "The Amber Revolution" is an excellent resource. It provides a comprehensive look at orange wine's history, production, and cultural significance.

Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, orange wine offers a fascinating journey into an ancient winemaking tradition that's finding new life in the modern world. So why not give it a try? You might just discover your new favourite wine style.