If you’re curious what orange wine is, you’re not alone. This type of wine is still relatively new to the scene, but it’s been around for centuries! In this blog post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about orange wine. We’ll discuss what it is, how it’s made, and what it tastes like. So if you’re ready to learn more about this unique type of wine, keep reading!
What is an orange wine?
What is an orange wine? Orange wine is made from white grapes that have been left in contact with their skins for a while, usually ranging from a few days to a few weeks. The extended skin contact gives the wine its distinctive orange hue.
Some people believe that orange wine is a cocktail, but this is not the case. Orange wine is all-natural and has a different flavor profile from red or white wines. It’s often described as being earthier and more complex than other types of wine.
Orange wine history
Orange wine is not a new invention; in fact, it has been around for thousands of years. According to wine academics, orange wine may have been consumed as far back as 6000 B.C. in Georgia (which is also thought to be the birthplace of wine as we know it).
However, orange wine didn’t start gaining popularity until the late 1990s, when vintners in Italy and Slovenia began experimenting with the technique. At first, the wine was valued with mixed reactions, but it has gained a following from fans who appreciate its unique flavor profile over time.
These days, orange wine is becoming more and more popular, thanks to its unique flavor profile and artisanal appeal.
How is orange wine made?
Now that you know what orange wine is let’s look at how it’s made. Orange wines are created by leaving white grapes in contact with their skins for a while. Orange wines are made in two ways: either the crushed grapes are fermented with their skins on, or they are placed in a container and allowed to soak.
The length of time that the grapes are left in contact with their skins will determine the flavor profile of the wine. A short skin contact period will produce a lighter, more acidic wine, while a more extended skin contact period will create a richer, more tannic wine.
Most orange wines are made with white grapes, but skin-contact wine can also be made using red grapes.
The difference between white grapes and red grapes for orange wine is the pigment drawn from the grape skins. You will get a lighter-hued wine with white grapes, while with red grapes, you will get a much darker wine. The flavor profiles will also be different, with white wines tending to have more citrus flavors and red wines tending to be earthier and spicier.
Some winemakers add other ingredients to the wine, such as honey or raisins, to give it a unique flavor. Orange wines can be enjoyed on their own or served with food. They are ideal for pairing with dishes that have a strong flavor, such as cheese or meat.
So what makes orange wine orange? The pigment anthocyanin gives many fruits and vegetables color, including grape skins. This compound is also found in blueberries, raspberries, cherries, and blackberries. So what you’re tasting when enjoying an orange wine is a fruity, red-wine-like beverage that has been given some time on the skins (usually about a week) to extract all of those yummy tannins and anthocyanins.
What does orange wine taste like?
Now that you know a bit of what orange wine is, let’s take a look at what it tastes like. As we mentioned before, orange wines are earthier and more complex than other types of wine. They have flavors of nuts, honey, spices, and citrus fruits. Some people also describe them as having a “barnyard” taste, which results from the yeast used in the fermentation process.
Because of their unique flavor profile, orange wines are not for everyone. If you’re not sure if you’ll like them or not, it might be a good idea to try a small glass before committing to a bottle.
What foods go well with orange wine?
As we mentioned before, orange wines are ideal for pairing dishes with a strong flavor, such as cheese or meat. They also pair well with earthy flavors, such as mushrooms or lentils.
If you’re looking for some recipe ideas, we’ve got a few suggestions for you. For starters, how about trying this Roasted Pesto Mushrooms with Grilled Cheese sandwich? Or maybe this Lentil and Bacon Salad is more your style?
And If you’re looking for something a little bit more adventurous, why not try pairing your orange wine with some sushi? The citrus flavors of the wine will complement the salty and tangy flavors of the fish, and the earthiness of the wine will balance out the sweetness of the rice.
So what do you think? Are you ready to try orange wine? Be sure to experiment with different food pairings to find the ones that you like the best. Cheers!
FAQ
Is orange wine sweet or dry?
Orange wine can be dry or sweet, depending on the winemaker’s preference. Some winemakers add other ingredients to the wine, such as honey or raisins, to give it a unique flavor.
What is the difference between red and orange wine?
The main difference between red and orange wine is that red wine is made with dark-colored grapes, while orange wine is made with white grapes. Red wines are also typically higher in alcohol content than orange wines.
Does orange wine taste like grape juice?
No, orange wine does not taste like grape juice. It has a unique flavor profile that is different than red or white wines.
Can I mix orange wine with other drinks?
Yes, you can mix orange wine with other drinks. However, it is best to drink it on its own or with light-flavored dishes to get the most out of its unique flavor profile.
Is orange wine good for you?
Yes, orange wine is good for you. It has high antioxidants, which help protect your body from disease and infection. It’s also been shown to improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and boost brain function. Orange wines are a good source of dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamin B-complex.
Where can I find orange wine?
You can find orange wine at most liquor stores. You may also find it at some grocery stores or online retailers.
What is the alcohol content of orange wine?
The alcohol content of orange wine varies depending on the winemaker’s preference, but it typically ranges from 11-14%.
Do orange wines have sulfites?
Yes, all wines contain sulfites. However, the number of sulfites in a particular wine will vary depending on the winemaker’s preference.
How long does orange wine last?
Orange wine typically lasts up to 18 months after it has been bottled. However, it is best to drink it within the first year for the best flavor.
Final Words
Orange wine is a delicious beverage that has been shown to have health benefits. If you’re looking for something new and exciting, why not give orange wines a try? You can find them at most wine stores or online retailers. In addition to being tasty, they may also help protect your body from disease and infection, improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and boost brain function. What are you waiting for? Let’s drink what tastes good!