Orange Wine

Orange wine is one of the most exciting and expressive wine styles available today. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with oranges. Instead, orange wine is made by fermenting white grapes with their skins left in contact with the juice, a process traditionally used for red wine. This extended skin contact gives the wine its distinctive colour, texture and structure.

The style has ancient roots, particularly in parts of Georgia and eastern Europe, but has been embraced by modern producers across Europe and beyond. Today, orange wine is closely linked with low intervention winemaking, though styles can vary widely depending on grape variety, skin contact time and ageing.

How orange wine is made

White grapes are crushed and fermented with their skins, seeds and sometimes stems. This allows tannins, colour and flavour compounds to be extracted, creating wines with grip and complexity. Skin contact can last anywhere from a few days to several months, influencing the wine’s intensity and texture.

Most orange wines are fermented with minimal handling and little oak influence, allowing the grape and winemaking process to speak clearly. The result is a style that feels raw, expressive and often unpredictable.

What orange wine tastes like

Orange wines sit between white and red in character. Expect flavours of citrus peel, stone fruit, dried herbs, spice and sometimes tea like or nutty notes. Tannins are usually present but gentle, giving structure rather than heaviness. Acidity remains important, keeping the wine fresh and balanced.

Some examples are light and aromatic, while others are deeper, savoury and more intense. This range makes orange wine appealing to curious drinkers looking to explore beyond conventional styles.

Food pairing with orange wine

Orange wine is highly food friendly thanks to its texture and tannin. It pairs well with dishes that can overwhelm traditional white wines, including spiced food, roasted vegetables, aged cheeses and cured meats. Its versatility also makes it a strong match for vegetarian and plant based dishes.

Served slightly cooler than room temperature, orange wine opens up beautifully in the glass and can benefit from a little air.

Why orange wine is growing in popularity

Orange wine offers something different without being gimmicky. It appeals to drinkers interested in authenticity, tradition and flavour driven wines. With its combination of freshness, structure and character, orange wine has carved out a place as a serious and rewarding style.

FAQs

Is orange wine a white or red wine?

Orange wine is made from white grapes, but fermented with skins, giving it structure similar to red wine.

Does orange wine taste sweet?
Most orange wines are dry, though their fruit richness can give an impression of warmth.

Is orange wine always natural or minimal intervention?
Many orange wines are made with minimal intervention, but this is not a requirement of the style.

How should orange wine be served?
Serve lightly chilled and consider decanting to help the wine open and soften.