Nope, we’re not talking about mimosas. 🍊 Discover the fascinating world of orange wine, including its flavor notes and perfect food pairings. Orange wine, a relatively new addition to the wine category, is produced using white grapes but in a similar manner to red wine. The skins of white grapes lend color and flavor to the juice, resulting in a range of hues from golden to saffron. Historically, orange wine dates back to at least 6,000 B.C. and originated in the Eastern European region that is now Georgia.

While orange wine was once difficult to find in the U.S., it is now created by producers in various wine regions around the world. Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Muscat, and Pinot Grigio, among others, are commonly used to make orange wines. Natural wine enthusiasts may have better luck finding orange wines at specialized wine shops, although not all orange wines are categorized as natural wines. Natural wines are made with minimal intervention and sourced from responsibly farmed and biodynamic vineyards.

The flavor profile of orange wine can vary greatly depending on the winemaker’s style and choice of grapes. From light and fruity to full-bodied and complex, orange wines offer a unique taste experience that is distinct from both white and red wines. Due to the skin contact involved in the winemaking process, orange wines tend to be more tannic than white wines. Citrus flavors, such as orange, tangerine, or grapefruit, are commonly found in orange wines, along with notes of honey, dried flowers, and stewed stone fruit. Some orange wines even resemble sour beers in terms of their fermentation strategy.

So, if you’re looking to explore the world of wine beyond the traditional reds and whites, give orange wine a try. Its enticing flavors and versatile food pairings make it a perfect choice for expanding your wine collection. Cheers to new discoveries!

Experience the Unique Sensory Journey of Orange Wine

Have you ever heard the aroma of orange wine described as a wood varnish or cabinet stain? It might sound off-putting, but when you experience it in harmony with the other aromas, it becomes enticing, exciting, and different. Orange wines offer a truly unique sensory experience that can change and develop in the glass, making each sip an entirely different experience.

Orange wine is not your typical white wine. It boasts a range of flavors, including nuts, juniper, sourdough, dried oranges, and bruised apples. Some orange wines can be intense, robust, and tannic, while others are easy-drinking options that are young, fresh, fruit-forward, juicy, and low in alcohol. It is essential to approach orange wines with an open mind and be willing to explore their complexity.

To fully enjoy the flavors of orange wine, it is best served slightly chilled. However, finding the right temperature can be tricky. Aim for around 55°F, similar to the ideal serving temperature for a light white or red wine. Following the “20-minute rule” can help achieve the right temperature. Either place the bottle in the fridge for 20 minutes before drinking, or take it out of the fridge 20 minutes before consumption. Investing in glassware that allows for a lot of interaction between the wine and the air, such as Crate and Barrel’s Aspen Red Wine Glass, can enhance the experience. If you prefer a more narrow white wine glass, it is also suitable for orange wine.

When it comes to pairing orange wine with food, its complexity, tanginess, and tannins make it adaptable to a wide range of flavors. It has enough body to complement dishes typically enjoyed with red wine while also standing in for rosés and fuller-bodied whites. To truly appreciate the nuances of orange wine, it is best to pair it with ingredients and recipes that have complex, bold, and spicy flavors. Korean barbecue, Thai curry, Mexican moles, charcuterie boards with strong cheeses and peppery meats, Moroccan dishes with warm spices, kimchi, spicy chicken, and Spanish paella are excellent choices.

Orange wine opens up a whole new world of flavor possibilities. It challenges our preconceptions about white wines and offers a sensory journey like no other. So, be open-minded, let it rest a minute, and try it again if you’re not convinced upon your first impression. You might just discover an entirely different and exciting experience with every sip.

Experience the citrus-y flare of orange wine, embrace its unique characteristics, and embark on a flavor adventure that will leave you wanting more. Cheers to the fascinating world of orange wine!