Orange Wine: What Is It?

In recent years, orange wine has surged in popularity across North America, defying initial expectations of being a mere trend. It has carved out a significant niche and is increasingly featured on wine lists around the world. In our tasting room this season, our N° 019 Wild Ferment Gewürztraminer has attracted growing interest, prompting many to ask about the nature of orange wine.

The term "orange wine" is somewhat of a misnomer. A more accurate descriptor would be "skin-contact white wine." This style involves leaving the white wine juice in contact with the grape skins, a method typically used for red wines. The duration of this skin contact can range from a few hours to several months, leading to a spectrum of colors from pale straw-yellow to deep amber. This process imparts characteristics similar to those of red wines, such as increased tannins, a fuller body, and a bolder texture.

While skin-contact white wines have seen a resurgence recently, this winemaking technique dates back thousands of years to Central Europe and Northern Italy. The term "orange wine" was only coined in 2004. These wines exemplify how ancient methods can seamlessly blend with modern practices, reflecting the timeless nature of winemaking and embodying the essence of what Jonathan Swift once said, “Everything old is new again”.

Culmina’s N° 019 Wild Ferment Gewürztraminer, has been aged for 67 days on the skins and left un-fined and unfiltered, representing a unique fusion of traditional and contemporary winemaking. Sampling it will surely introduce new dimensions to your palate and broaden your overall wine experience, demonstrating the enduring appeal and innovation within the world of wine.