OIV definition of Orange Wine (formal White wine with maceration):

White wine derived from alcoholic fermentation of a must with prolonged contact with grape pomace , including skins, pulp, seeds and eventually stems.

Prescriptions:

a. Winemaking is conducted exclusively using white grapes varieties;

b. the maceration is carried out in contact with grape pomace;

c. the minimum duration of the maceration phase is 1 month;

d. “White wine with maceration” can be characterised by an orange-amber colour and a tannic taste.

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Orange Wine is a type of white wine made using a process similar to red wine production, where the grape skins are left in contact with the juice for an extended period. This technique gives the wine an amber or orange hue and enhances its complexity with tannins, body, and unique flavors.

### **Key Characteristics of Orange Wine**

- **Production Method:** Made from white wine grapes but fermented with skin contact, unlike conventional white wines.

- **Color:** Ranges from deep gold to rich amber or orange.

- **Taste Profile:** Typically bold with notes of dried fruit, nuts, honey, tea, spice, and sometimes a slight oxidative quality.

- **Texture:** More structured and tannic than regular white wines.

- **Aging & Serving:** Often aged in clay vessels (e.g., qvevris in Georgia) or neutral barrels; best served slightly chilled.

- **Common Regions:** Georgia, Italy (especially Friuli-Venezia Giulia), Slovenia, Austria, and some New World wine regions.

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### **Orange Wine – Encyclopedic Definition**

**Orange wine**, also known as **skin-contact white wine**, is a style of wine made from white grape varieties where the grape skins remain in contact with the juice during fermentation. This process, similar to red wine production, imparts color, tannins, and complex flavors to the wine. The result is a wine with a distinctive amber or orange hue, a fuller body, and a more pronounced aromatic and textural profile than traditional white wines.

### **History and Origins**

Orange wine production dates back thousands of years, with some of the earliest known examples originating in **Georgia** around 6,000 BCE. Georgian winemakers traditionally ferment orange wine in **qvevris** (large clay amphorae buried underground), a method still used today. The style has also been historically present in **Friuli-Venezia Giulia (Italy), Slovenia, and Austria**, with modern producers in various regions adopting similar techniques.

### **Production Method**

Unlike conventional white wine, where the juice is separated from the skins immediately, orange wine undergoes extended maceration with the skins, seeds, and sometimes stems. This process can last from a few days to several months, contributing to the wine’s deep color, tannic structure, and complex flavor profile. The fermentation often takes place in neutral vessels such as clay amphorae, concrete, or old oak barrels to maintain purity and authenticity.

### **Characteristics**

- **Color:** Ranges from golden yellow to deep amber or orange, depending on skin contact duration.

- **Aromas & Flavors:** Typically features notes of dried fruit, nuts, honey, orange peel, tea, spice, and earthy or oxidative qualities.

- **Texture & Structure:** Higher tannins and a fuller body than typical white wines, often with a slightly grippy mouthfeel.

- **Aging Potential:** Can be aged for several years, with oxidation adding complexity over time.

### **Key Regions**

1. **Georgia** – Traditional home of orange wine, using ancient qvevri methods.

2. **Italy (Friuli-Venezia Giulia)** – Known for winemakers like Gravner and Radikon, pioneers of the modern orange wine movement.

3. **Slovenia** – Adjacent to Friuli, producing similar high-quality skin-contact wines.

4. **Austria** – Particularly in regions like Styria, producing unique expressions.

5. **New World Producers** – Countries like the United States, Australia, and South Africa are experimenting with orange wine styles.

### **Food Pairing**

Orange wines' bold structure and tannins allow them to pair well with a variety of foods, including:

- **Rich seafood dishes** (e.g., grilled salmon, tuna, or octopus)

- **Spiced and fermented foods** (e.g., kimchi, miso, or Moroccan tagines)

- **Cheeses** (e.g., aged cheddar, blue cheese, or washed-rind varieties)

- **Hearty vegetarian dishes** (e.g., roasted root vegetables, mushrooms, or lentils)

### **Conclusion**

Orange wine represents a unique intersection of ancient winemaking tradition and modern artisanal craftsmanship. While once a niche style, it has gained significant popularity among wine enthusiasts and sommeliers for its distinct character and versatility.

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