Perhaps you've seen its beautiful amber hue on a wine list or heard friends talking about it. Orange wine represents one of the most ancient and intriguing winemaking traditions, yet it remains beautifully misunderstood by many wine enthusiasts.
So, what exactly is it? And is it the right style for you? Let's dive in.
What is Orange Wine?
Despite its name, orange wine contains no oranges. Instead, it's a white wine that achieves its distinctive colour through extended skin contact during fermentation. This ancient technique, practiced for over 8,000 years in regions like Georgia, creates wines that challenge conventional expectations and offer a complexity that bridges the gap between white and red wines.
The process begins with white grapes that are crushed and left in contact with their skins for days, weeks, or even months. This skin contact extracts tannins, phenolic compounds, and pigments that would normally be removed immediately in traditional white winemaking. The result is a wine with structure, texture, and a colour that ranges from pale gold to deep amber orange.
What is Special About Orange Wine?
Orange wine captivates with its extraordinary sensory complexity. These wines deliver bold, multifaceted aromatics that evolve dramatically in the glass—think honeyed richness intertwined with savoury herbaceous notes and nutty depth. The extended skin contact creates a unique textural experience, offering the grip and structure typically associated with red wines while maintaining the freshness of whites.
Many producers embrace natural fermentation, avoid sulphur additions, and employ ancient techniques passed down through generations. This commitment to minimal intervention results in wines that express their vineyard origins with remarkable transparency. For those seeking an alternative to Dan Murphy's, orange wine from a curated source like Drink Fab offers a story of place and tradition.
Is This Wine Style For You?
Deciding whether to buy orange wine comes down to what you enjoy in a glass. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.
Orange wine is for you if:
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You love aromatic, textural white wines. If you enjoy the complexity of a good Pinot Gris or Viognier, you'll appreciate the rich aromas of dried apricot, honey, and nuts in many orange wines.
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You're a fan of light-bodied, savoury red wines. The gentle tannic grip and savoury character of orange wine will feel familiar and appealing to lovers of Pinot Noir or Gamay.
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You enjoy exploring unique flavours. If your palate is drawn to things like sour beer, kombucha, or natural ciders, the funky, nutty, and sometimes tangy profile of an orange organic wine will be an exciting discovery.
Orange wine might not be for you if:
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You exclusively drink crisp, clean, simple white wines. If your go-to is a zesty, straightforward Sauvignon Blanc, the robust texture and savoury notes of orange wine might be an acquired taste.
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You are sensitive to tannins. The skin-contact process imparts tannins that give the wine structure. If you typically avoid tannic red wines, you may find some orange wines challenging.
Your Orange Wine Questions, Answered
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Is orange wine the same as natural wine? Not necessarily, but they often overlap. Orange wine is a style defined by skin contact. Natural wine is a philosophy focused on minimal intervention. Many natural winemakers love making orange wine, which is why our collection is full of organic, minimal-intervention examples.
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What does orange wine taste like? They are often described as robust and complex, with flavours ranging from dried fruits (apricot, orange peel) and nuts (almond) to honey, herbs, and tea. They also tend to have noticeable tannins and refreshing acidity.
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What foods pair well with orange wine? Its structure makes it incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with a wide range of foods, including cheeses, charcuterie, spicy dishes, roasted vegetables, and Middle Eastern or North African cuisine.
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How should orange wine be served? It’s best served slightly chilled, around 12-14°C, to highlight its complex flavours. Decanting can also help soften any initial sharpness and bring out more aromas.
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Why is there sediment in my orange wine? Some orange wines are unfiltered and may contain natural sediment. This is harmless and a positive sign of minimal intervention during winemaking.
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What grapes are used to make orange wine? A wide variety of white grapes can be used. Traditionally, grapes with aromatic potential and good texture are favoured. You'll often find skin-contact versions of Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, and Rkatsiteli. A Pinot Gris orange wine, for example, is a classic expression of the style.
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Which regions are famous for orange wine? The historical heartland is Georgia, where wines are made in traditional clay qvevri. Today, the style has been revived globally, with northeastern Italy (specifically Friuli) and Slovenia being famous for producing world-class Italian orange wine. You will also find fantastic examples from producers right here in Australia.
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What is the alcohol content of orange wine? The orange wine alcohol content is typically in line with other still wines, usually ranging from 11% to 14% ABV. It depends on the grape variety and the ripeness at harvest, not the skin-contact process itself.
- How do I find the best orange wine in Australia? Finding the best orange wine in Australia starts with understanding the different styles. Some are light and fruity, while others are bold and tannic. We recommend starting with a producer known for quality organic practices and exploring different grape varieties to find the style that suits your palate.
Ready to Explore?
The best way to understand orange wines is to taste them. Our curated collection features a range of styles, from approachable introductions to complex, age-worthy bottles. Each one is a testament to the passion of its maker and the unique story of this ancient winemaking tradition.
