Discovering Orange Wines: A Unique Winter Experience

Orange wine, also known as amber wine, has been turning heads in the wine world lately. Its distinct flavor profile and versatility make it a favorite among wine lovers, especially during the colder months. With bold flavors and warming qualities, orange wine is the perfect companion for cozy nights by the fire or festive gatherings with friends and family.

If you’re new to the term, orange wine—sometimes called skin contact wine—is made using a unique process. Unlike regular white wine, where the grape skins are removed quickly, orange wine keeps the skins in contact with the juice during fermentation. This technique, commonly used in red winemaking, gives the wine its stunning amber hue and a rich, bold flavor. Fun fact: despite its name, orange wine has absolutely nothing to do with oranges! The name simply refers to the beautiful color created by this process.

The roots of orange wine stretch back thousands of years to the ancient Caucasus region, which includes modern-day Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. Early winemakers discovered that leaving grape skins in contact with the juice created wines with deeper flavors and more character. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find incredible orange wines from regions like Italy, Slovenia, Australia, and even parts of the U.S.

Orange wine starts with white grapes, but here’s the twist—the skins stay on during fermentation. This contact gives the wine its distinctive color and bold personality. The duration of skin contact can vary, resulting in wines with different levels of intensity. Many winemakers use natural or minimal-intervention methods, which means fewer additives and a focus on organic or biodynamic practices. The result? A wine that’s as intriguing as it is delicious.

One sip of orange wine, and you’ll see why it’s a cold-weather favorite. Its complex flavors—think nutty, floral, spicy, and sometimes a little funky—are complemented by tannins that give it a full-bodied feel. It’s warming, satisfying, and just what you need when the temperatures drop. Bonus: its structure means it can age beautifully, developing even more complexity over time.

One of the best things about orange wine is its versatility when it comes to food. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty winter meal or a festive spread, orange wine rises to the occasion.

• Roasted Vegetables: An orange wine with nutty, earthy notes and mild tannins, such as a skin-contact Pinot Gris like Domaine Bonnet-Huteau, pairs beautifully with the caramelized flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and parsnips. 
  
  
• Creamy Soups and Stews: A fuller-bodied orange wine like the Orto Vins Blanc D'Orto Brisat pairs perfectly with creamy soups and stews. Its unique texture and fruity, slightly tannic profile enhance the richness of the dish, creating a balanced and flavorful match. 

• Aged Cheeses: A fuller-bodied orange wine, like Biokult Naken, an organic orange wine, pairs perfectly with aged cheeses like Parmesan, Gruyčre, or Cheddar. Its balanced acidity and subtle tannins cut through the richness of the cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
  
  
• Cured Meats: A tannic orange wine like Familie Bauer Hollotrio orange wine from Austria adds a savory edge to complement the salty richness of charcuterie. Its balance of acidity, subtle tannins, and citrusy, herbal notes make it a perfect match for prosciutto, chorizo, and salami. 

Bold enough to stand up to heat, orange wine such as Papras Winery - Pleiades Roditis shine with Thai curries, Indian masalas, or Mexican mole. Its aromatic and fruity profile, combined with balanced acidity and mild tannins, makes it a perfect match for these flavorful and spicy dishes.

An orange wine such as Familie Bauer Hollotrio, or a Pinot Gris like Domaine Bonnet-Huteau, with its vibrant acidity and crisp finish, complements the richness of seafood beautifully. The wine’s acidity and structure pair surprisingly well with rich, flavorful seafood like grilled salmon or scallops.

1. Serve Slightly Chilled
   Orange wine is at its best when served just cool enough to bring out its flavors—around 55–60°F (13–16°C). Take the bottle out of the fridge about 15–20 minutes before serving for the perfect balance. This little step makes a big difference in how much you’ll enjoy the wine.
   
   
2. Choose the Right Glass
   For orange wine, grab a glass with a larger bowl, like the kind you’d use for red wine. The wider surface area helps aerate the wine, enhancing its bouquet and giving you a richer tasting experience.
   
   
3. Let It Breathe
   If you’ve got a bottle of orange wine with some serious complexity, give it time to open up. Decanting it for an hour or two can bring out its hidden layers, making each sip even more interesting.
   
   
4. Play with Pairings
   The beauty of orange wine? It’s a food lover’s dream. Pair it with everything from roasted veggies and hearty soups to spicy curries and seafood. Don’t be afraid to experiment—you might just find a new favorite combo!

Orange wine isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience. Its bold flavors, warming qualities, and incredible food-pairing potential make it a standout choice for the winter months. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening, orange wine brings a little something extra to the table. Ready to discover the magic of orange wine? Find your next winter favorite at Vino by the Sea—from bold reds and crisp whites to unique orange wines that elevate your winter gatherings. Cheers to a cozy, delicious winter!