Questions about orange wine

At Orange & Natural Wines, we value answering questions about our wines and winemakers in a simple and understandable manner. There are no silly questions in this context, as questions are always aimed at expanding knowledge. And let's be honest, without questions and corresponding answers, the world would look quite different. So, if you have a question related to our wines and my passion that you feel is missing, please let me know so I can definitely address it.

Your Egon-Julius Berger

What is Orange Wine?

A good and valid question. The name might suggest that Orange Wine is made from oranges or other tropical fruits, but that's not quite right. Like red, white, or rosé wine, the name refers to the color of the wine. Therefore, Orange Wine is also referred to as a fourth color of wine.

The term comes from the production method of this wine, and I have described it in detail on the page Orange - The Fourth Wine Color. It doesn't quite fit here.

How is Orange Wine Made?

Another very interesting question! Orange Wine is made from white grapes, but it undergoes a similar production process to red wine. This means that the grapes, including their skins, seeds, and stems, are left to macerate for a period before the fermentation process is completed. This process, known as maceration, can last from a few days to several months. The intense contact with the grape skins gives the wine its characteristic orange color and complex aromas.

What is Maceration?

Maceration is a central term in winemaking. It refers to the mixture of crushed grapes, including their skins, seeds, and often stems. In the production of Orange Wine, the maceration is left to sit for a certain period to allow fermentation to begin. During this phase, pigments, tannins, and other flavor compounds are extracted from the skins and seeds, giving Orange Wine its unique color and distinctive taste.

How Does Orange Wine Taste?

The taste of Orange Wine can vary greatly depending on the production method and grape variety. Generally, Orange Wine is characterized by a greater variety and depth of aromas. You often find notes of dried fruits, nuts, herbs, and sometimes exotic spices. The tannins that come from the maceration process give the wine a certain structure and a slightly tannic finish that resembles red wine. Orange Wines are often complex and offer an exciting taste experience that stands out from traditional white and red wines.

How to Drink Orange Wine?

Orange Wine is best served slightly chilled, but not ice-cold. A temperature between 10 and 14 degrees Celsius is ideal to bring out the flavors. It is recommended to decant the wine before drinking to allow it to breathe. This helps open up the complex aromas and intensifies the taste experience. Orange Wines are suitable both as an aperitif and as an accompaniment to various dishes.

Why is Orange Wine Often Cloudy?

The cloudiness in Orange Wine mainly results from the natural and minimal processing applied during its production. Many Orange Wines are bottled unfiltered and unfined to preserve the authentic flavors and structure of the wine. As a result, fine particles that develop during maceration and fermentation may remain in the wine. This practice aligns with the philosophy of many winemakers who prefer minimal intervention to maintain the wine's natural character. The cloudiness is thus a sign that the wine can be enjoyed in its purest form, without having its original character altered by filtration and fining. At Orange & Natural Wines, we appreciate this authenticity and offer you a selection of unfiltered and unfined Orange Wines that truly express their origin.

What Food Pairs with Orange Wine?

Orange Wine is a very versatile food companion. Due to its robust flavors and structure, it pairs excellently with dishes featuring intense flavors. It harmonizes particularly well with Asian cuisine, dishes with exotic spices, as well as hearty stews and grilled meats. Vegetarian dishes with root vegetables or mushrooms also benefit from pairing with Orange Wine. Its wide range of aromas makes it an ideal partner for creative and varied culinary creations.

How Long Can You Store Orange Wine?

The aging potential of Orange Wine can vary depending on the production method and the quality of the wine. In general, Orange Wines are known for their good aging potential. Thanks to the tannins extracted during maceration, they often have a robust structure that allows for extended aging. A well-made Orange Wine can be stored for 5 to 10 years or even longer, often developing additional complexity and depth in its aromas. It is important to store the wine under optimal conditions – cool, dark, and with a constant temperature. If you're unsure how long you can store a particular Orange Wine, we at Orange & Natural Wines are happy to offer advice.

What is the Difference Between Orange Wine and Natural Wine?

Orange Wine and Natural Wine are terms that are often confused, but they refer to different aspects of wine. Orange Wine describes a specific production method where white grapes are fermented on the skins, resulting in an orange color and complex aromas. Natural Wine, on the other hand, refers to the philosophy and methods of viticulture and winemaking. Natural Wines are produced with minimal or no intervention in the vineyard and cellar, often without added sulfur or the use of industrial yeasts and other additives. Many Orange Wines are also Natural Wines, but not every Natural Wine is an Orange Wine. Natural Wine can be any wine color – white, red, rosé, or orange. Both categories share a passion for artisanal, sustainable winemaking and an authentic expression of the terroir.

Are Orange Wines Always Made Organically or Biodynamically?

An important and interesting question! Orange Wines are not necessarily always made organically or biodynamically, although many of them do meet these criteria. The term "Orange Wine" primarily refers to the specific method of skin fermentation with white grapes. Many winemakers who produce Orange Wines place a strong emphasis on sustainable practices and often work organically or biodynamically. This is because the philosophy behind Orange Wine often aligns with a nature-friendly and artisanal approach. However, it is important to check the specific certifications and statements from winemakers if organic or biodynamic production is particularly important to you. At Orange & Natural Wines, you'll find a variety of wines produced according to these principles, and we're happy to provide further information.

Where Can You Buy Orange Wine?

Of course, you can buy the best Orange Wines directly from our online shop. We have a carefully selected collection of wines from Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Italy, and Germany, all handpicked and made by top-quality winemakers. Just check out our selection and discover the variety of Orange Wines. We are also happy to offer advice if you need help with your selection.