The short version
What is Orange Wine?
Orange wine is made from white grapes that ferment with their skins, sometimes for days and sometimes for months. The method has deep roots in Georgia and was revived by producers around northeastern Italy and Slovenia before spreading worldwide. The name describes color and method—not oranges or added flavoring.
Expect dried apricot, orange peel, bruised apple, tea, herbs, nuts, or gentle oxidative notes. Skin contact adds grip that is unusual in white wine, while serving temperature and air can dramatically change the aromas.
In the glass
Flavors to look for
01Dried apricot
02Orange peel
03Tea
04Herbs
05Walnut
At the table
Food pairings that work
Match the wine’s weight to the dish, then let acidity refresh the palate and savory flavors echo one another.
Roast squashMushroom dishesSpiced chickenAged cheese
Where it grows
Regions to know
- Kakheti, Georgia
- Friuli, Italy
- Brda, Slovenia
- Worldwide