Orange wine has gained immense popularity among wine lovers in recent years. Its distinctive color, complex flavors, and artisanal production methods make it stand out from other wine varieties. This article explores everything you need to know about orange wine, including its taste, calories, pairing suggestions, and some of the best brands to try.
Orange Wine Brands
1. Radikon (Italy)
Radikon, based in Friuli, Italy, is a pioneer in modern orange wine production. Their wines are known for their deep amber hues, bold flavors, and extended skin contact fermentation.
2. Gravner (Italy)
Another iconic name from Friuli, Gravner, emphasizes natural winemaking processes. They use amphorae for fermentation, adding a unique earthy character to their orange wines.
3. Pheasant’s Tears (Georgia)
Georgia is the birthplace of orange wine, and Pheasant’s Tears continues the ancient tradition. Their wines, made in clay qvevris, showcase the terroir and heritage of the region.
4. Matassa (France)
Hailing from the Roussillon region, Matassa produces biodynamic orange wines with vibrant acidity and delicate floral notes.
5. Pyramid Valley (New Zealand)
This New Zealand winery crafts stunning orange wines that balance fruitiness and minerality, making them ideal for newcomers to this style.
Orange Wine Taste
1. Fruity:Dried apricots, orange zest, and stone fruits are typical.
2. Nutty: Hazelnuts and almonds often emerge due to oxidation.
3. Herbal and Spicy: Hints of chamomile, thyme, and white pepper add layers of complexity.
4. Tannic: The skin contact imparts tannins, giving the wine a structure similar to red wine.
Orange Wine Calories
The calorie content in orange wine is comparable to that of other wines, generally ranging from 120 to 130 calories per 5-ounce serving. Factors such as alcohol content and residual sugar can affect the total calorie count:
Dry Orange Wines: Typically lower in calories due to minimal residual sugar.
Sweet Orange Wines: Contain slightly more calories due to higher sugar content.
Orange Wine Pairing
1. Cheese and Charcuterie
The tannins in orange wine complement aged cheeses like Gruyère, Manchego, and Parmesan. It also pairs well with cured meats and olives.
2. Spicy Dishes
The bold flavors of orange wine can handle the heat of spicy foods, making it an excellent choice for Thai curries, Indian cuisine, or Sichuan dishes.
3. Seafood
Orange wine’s acidity and texture enhance dishes like grilled octopus, seared scallops, and shellfish stews.
4. Vegetarian Fare
Its earthy notes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, lentil stews, and mushroom risottos.
5. Exotic Cuisine
The wine’s complexity complements Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and North African flavors, including dishes with za’atar, harissa, or preserved lemons.
FAQs
1. How is orange wine different from white wine?
Unlike traditional white wine, which is made by fermenting grapes without their skins, orange wine involves fermenting white grapes with their skins, seeds, and sometimes stems. This skin contact imparts more tannins, color, and complex flavors, making orange wine richer and more full-bodied.
2. Where is orange wine produced?
Orange wine is made in many regions around the world, but it has historical roots in areas like Georgia, Italy (specifically in Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Sicily), and Slovenia. Recently, it has gained popularity in places like Australia, the United States, and France.
3. How should orange wine be served?
Orange wine is best served slightly chilled, usually around 50-55°F (10-13°C). It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with food. Due to its tannic structure and complexity, it pairs well with hearty dishes such as roasted meats, charcuterie, and rich cheeses.
4. Is orange wine a natural wine?
Many orange wines are considered natural wines because they are often made with minimal intervention, using organic or biodynamic farming methods and native yeast for fermentation. However, not all orange wines are necessarily natural, as some may use conventional winemaking practices.
5. What is the difference between orange wine and rosé wine?
The primary difference is that rosé wine is made from red grapes with minimal skin contact, giving it a pink color, while orange wine is made from white grapes with extended skin contact, resulting in an orange or amber hue. Orange wine is also typically more tannic and structured compared to rosé.
6. Can orange wine age?
Yes, orange wine can age well, especially those made with robust grape varieties and traditional winemaking techniques. Like red wines, orange wines can develop more complex flavors over time. However, they should be stored properly, in a cool, dark place, and consumed within a few years for the best experience.
