Wine lovers are always on the lookout for something new and exciting to try. If you’re one of those adventurous drinkers, you may have heard of orange wine. Unlike traditional white, red, or rosé wines, orange wine has a distinctively deep, orange-like color and a unique flavour profile. Here’s everything you need to know about orange wine and how to taste it like a pro.
What is Orange Wine?
Orange wine is made from white wine grapes, but instead of separating the juice from the skins and seeds, the grapes are left in contact with the skins and seeds for an extended period. This process, called maceration, gives the wine its distinct orange color, tannins, and texture.
Orange wine has been around for centuries and has its roots in Georgia, the country, not the state. It was only in recent years that orange wine became trendy in the Western world, with natural wine enthusiasts championing its complexity and unique flavor.
How to Taste Orange Wine
Orange wine is not your average wine, so it’s essential to know how to taste it correctly. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your orange wine experience:
Look at the colour: Orange wine has a rich, amber hue, with shades ranging from pale yellow to deep orange. Hold the glass up to the light and take a moment to appreciate its unique colour.
Smell the aromas: Swirl the wine around the glass and take a deep breath. Orange wine has a complex aroma that can include notes of dried fruit, honey, tea, and even nuts. Take your time to identify the different scents and appreciate their depth.
Taste the wine: Take a sip and let it sit in your mouth for a few seconds before swallowing. Orange wine has a rich, full-bodied taste, with a range of flavours that can include apricot, peach, honey, and herbs. It also has a unique tannic structure that can give it a slight astringency.
Consider the texture: Orange wine has a unique texture that can be described as chewy or grippy. This texture comes from the tannins extracted from the grape skins during maceration.
Pair with food: Orange wine pairs well with a variety of foods, from spicy dishes to cured meats and cheese. Experiment with different pairings to find the perfect match.
Conclusion
Orange wine is a unique and intriguing wine that’s worth trying for any wine lover. Its complex aroma and flavour profile make it a great addition to any wine collection, and its versatility with food makes it an excellent wine to pair with any meal. Next time you’re in the mood for something different, give orange wine a try, and experience the world of natural wine. If you would like to learn more about this unique wine in a virtual wine tasting or face-to-face wine tasting then just drop us a line for more information
