Sipping on Sunshine

It may be the current craze of the wine world, but orange wine is nothing new. Why is this ancient form of wine-making having a comeback? 

What is orange wine? 

In simple terms, orange wine is wine created from white grapes, but it’s been fermented in the same way as red wine. The skins and seeds are left on and exposed to lots of oxygen. Traditionally, no additives are used, not even yeast. This process brings about bruised apple, honey, and nutty aromas to grapes that were once fresh and floral. 

The history

Orange wine has been around for about 8,000 years. Its unique flavour offers a glimpse into what wine would have been like in ancient times. Orange winemaking techniques appear to have originated in what we now know as Georgia. Back then, the land was covered in oak-hickory forests and was home to Stone Age wine farmers. 

The flavour

A rule of thumb on your first sip - don’t think about orange wine as a type of white wine, think of it as an entirely different style altogether. The flavour can be a bit of a shock for anyone used to the crisp, light, fruity flavour of a white wine. Orange wines are more complex, layered and structured. They often have savoury notes, and aromas of tea, dried fruits and nuts. 

The serve

Orange wine is best served in a medium sized glass so all components of its flavour can be enjoyed. As with all wines, the flavour will be more subtle when chilled but will become bolder as it warms up. "Orange wines are best served slightly warmer than a classic white wine," says Neil Palmer of Vintage Roots. "Aim for around 10-14 degrees Celsius for best results."

Where is it made now? 

Greece 
The highly renowned Lyrarakis family have been making wines in Crete since 1966. Their vineyards in Heraklion are located at over 500m altitude and benefit from the perfect environment for Assyrtiko and Vidiano grapes. Discover lively notes of stone fruits and zingy citrus peel.

Lyrarakis Assyrtiko Vidiano orange wine £14*

Wales 
This gwin oren (orange wine) is a blend of albarino and chardonnay grapes that have been macerated between 30-50 days, which gives a deep orange tone. It has aromas of tropical fruits, including apricot, passion fruit and tangerine. And its Clockwork Orange inspired label brings another layer of freshness. 

Ancre Hill orange wine 2020 £26*

Spain
El Troyano is a great introduction to orange wines, giving aromas of peach and orange, while being spicy and savoury on the palate, with delicate hints of vanilla. The Parra family works two large vineyards in La Mancha, and have been certified Organic since 1995.

El Troyano Orange Wine £12.50*

Available from vintageroots.co.uk 

France 
An exciting new wine from Domaines Paul Mas that gets its colour from extended skin contact with the Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris and Macabeu white grapes. It has fresh citrus and spice aromas and taste, and is a great match for
bold flavoured dishes.

Paul Mas Arrogant Frog Orange £13.50*

Available from vintageroots.co.uk

Germany 
Created by the Seckinger brothers in the Pfalz wine region of Germany. Easy drinking and full of flavour, Nero Weisswein is referred to as “pure delicious juice” for a reason! 

Nero Weisswein “pure delicious juice” £23*