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Orange wine, also known as skin-contact wine, has roots stretching back thousands of years to Georgia, where it was first made. In this ancient wine region, grapes were crushed and placed in large clay vessels called Q’vevri, buried underground. The juice fermented with the skins for several months, resulting in a richly coloured, amber-hued wine with complex flavours.
As winemaking evolved, particularly in Europe, orange wine fell out of favour, replaced by fresher, younger white wines. However, a few hundred years ago, winemakers in Italy and Slovenia began to revive this ancient method. They aimed to reconnect with traditional practices and create wines with unique character. Today, orange wine is gaining popularity, particularly among those interested in natural and artisan wines.
Orange wine is essentially white wine made with red wine techniques. Unlike typical white wine, where the skins are removed quickly, orange wine is made by fermenting the juice with the skins and seeds, sometimes for weeks or even months. This process gives the wine its orange or amber colour, as well as a distinctive taste that can range from nutty and spicy to fruity and floral.
Despite its ancient origins, the term “orange wine” is relatively modern. British wine expert David Harvey coined it in the early 2000s while working with natural winemakers like Frank Cornelissen on Mount Etna. Harvey realised that these wines, which were neither red nor white, needed their own category. He chose the term “orange wine” because it accurately described the wine’s final colour, avoiding confusion with other categories.
In recent years, orange wine has made a strong comeback. Winemakers worldwide—from Italy and Slovenia to Australia and the United States—are embracing this traditional method, often with a focus on minimal intervention and natural processes. For consumers, orange wine offers a unique tasting experience, with bold flavours and a tannic structure that pairs well with a variety of foods, from rich meats to spicy dishes. However, it may not appeal to everyone, particularly those used to conventional white wines.
If you’re curious to try orange wine, Pure Wines offers an excellent selection. Our range includes natural, sulphite-free, and biodynamic options from winemakers around the world. These unique wines are available in limited quantities, so don’t miss the chance to discover something truly special.
