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Exploring the Enthralling Realm of Orange Wines
Orange wines are currently the talk of the town, and deservedly so. These unique wines represent an exhilarating return to the roots of winemaking, challenging conventional norms with their distinctive production process and flavor profiles. For the intrepid wine enthusiasts who have already delved into this intriguing world, they are aware that there is still a wealth of experiences to uncover through various wine regions, styles, and intensity levels. We invite you to plunge into this thrilling journey of discovery with us!
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Orange wines are the fruit of an ancient fermentation technique, where white grapes are macerated with their skins, resulting in an exceptional blend of the freshness of whites and the complexity of reds. However, what truly sets these wines apart is their production method, often conducted in special vessels. Traditionally, amphorae made of clay or terracotta, known for their neutrality, are used, allowing the varietal purity and the character of the terroir to be fully expressed. Nonetheless, the creativity of winemakers knows no bounds, and today other containers such as stainless steel or concrete vats, barrels, and casks are also utilized, adding even greater diversity and complexity to these extraordinary wines. Indeed, this technique, which dates back thousands of years, is currently being rediscovered and reinvented by innovative winemakers across the globe, with each region contributing its own unique character and style. Across the world, different viticultural regions are making their mark on the realm of Orange Wines:
Georgia, the cradle of orange wines
In Georgia, one finds the earliest references to orange wine dating back 6,000 years. This ancient tradition has been kept alive in this Eastern European wine region, using qvevri, large terracotta amphorae buried in the ground, a method that has been declared a World Heritage by UNESCO since 2013. Crafted predominantly from indigenous white varieties such as chinuri, kisi, rkatsiteli, and tsiska, these are unique wines that stand out for their intensity and complexity.
Slovenia, the grand masters of orange wines
Slovenia, pioneers in the development of the fourth wine color, produces orange wines throughout its territory, including many internationally renowned producers. Deeply connected to the surrounding nature, Slovenians have been cultivating vines and producing wine for centuries. Their orange wines, made from thick-skinned white varieties like ribolla gialla (rebula), are noted for their elegance and vibrancy.
Italy, the resurgence of orange wines
The modern orange wines began to be crafted in the Italian region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia in the 1990s by some standout local winemakers. Since then, this trend has spread to other countries such as Bulgaria, Austria, Germany, France, Spain, and the United States. Varietals like malvasia, ribolla gialla, and trebbiano present us with enticing wines featuring delicate tannins, a pleasant texture, and a long, mineral finish.
France, the burgeoning of orange wines
While most are labeled under the generic Vin de France, an increasing number of distinct French regions are embracing the orange wine trend. Each brings its genuine style to the table with richly original creations. In Jura, orange wines made from very ripe savagnin grapes are prominent, while in Alsace, fresh monovarietals of gewürztraminer astonish, in Loire with their herbaceous chenin and sauvignon blanc, or in Burgundy with its renowned creamy chardonnay.
Spain, the Mediterranean personality of orange wines
In Spain, orange wines have their own tradition under the name vi brisat (brisé wine), so-called because of the breezes, that is, the solid parts of the grapes (skins or pomace, seeds, and even the stem). Wines made with diverse varieties such as garnacha blanca, macabeo, or malvasia exude freshness and complexity in equal measure and are a direct reflection of the Mediterranean climate.
With each region offering its own unique twist on orange wines, the diversity and excitement are boundless. If you're still undecided about your favorite orange wine, don't worry. The trick is to keep tasting ;)
