Orange Wine
At Mai Vino, we work directly with growers to cultivate responsibly and beautifully balanced single-origin wines. All of our wines are organic and fermented with indigenous yeast. We believe that by introducing others to the wonderful world of wine, we can help them to develop a deeper appreciation for it.
Best Orange Wine
Wine made from oranges? Nope, this type of wine is made from grapes, but its interesting color and taste have increased its popularity in the last decade. Let’s break down what you need to know about orange wine.
What is Orange Wine?
Orange wine is actually a type of white wine, though it is in a league all it’s own separate from other white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Chenin Blanc, and Riesling. In fact, orange wines are commonly known as “skin-contact whites” among wine enthusiasts; during fermentation, the grape skin is left in contact with the juice.
This is a practice - known as maceration - usually used when making red wines and rosés; when used with white grapes, the result is a gorgeous orange color that can range anywhere from pale gold to rich amber.
Unlike other types of wines, little to no additives are used in the production of orange wine. This biodynamic method produces what is commonly referred to as low-intervention or natural wines, which boast a taste that is very unique, usually described as an enjoyable combination of nutty, fruity, and sour.
Where does Orange Wine Come From?
Orange wine mainly finds its domain in Georgia. The country of Georgia is perhaps one of the most notable producers of orange wine in the entire world; Georgian winemakers have been making skin-contact wine for over 8,000 years.
The Rkatsiteli grape is favored in Georgia, as it produces a rich, warm amber color; in fact, most Georgians prefer to refer to this type of wine as “amber wine.”
Friulian Pinot Grigio, which hails from Italy’s Friuli region, is also made with the same low-intervention method — referred to as Ramato (Italian for “copper” or “auburn”).
In the United States, orange wine is produced in California and New York.
In Itata, Chile where Mai Vino produces orange wine, this vino has always been the de facto white wine. That’s because white wine making technology never was brought over.
Is Orange Wine Sweet or Dry?
Most orange wine tastes dry, with robust hints of tannin, minerality, and fruity aromas. While orange wine is dry, it boasts notable fruity flavors. Notes of hazelnut and orange rind provide rich depth.
The varietals used will directly affect the overall taste, but you can typically expect tasting notes of apricots, stone fruit, baked pears, and orange zest.
Depending on the region from which the wine hails, you may find an off-dry (semi-sweet) variation.
Orange wine is ideal for a wide variety of food pairings; it pairs well with any charcuterie board, a perfect complement to funky cheeses and delectable deli meats. Most sommeliers agree it is also an ideal pair for bold Indian, Moroccan, or Ethiopian cuisines.
Handcrafted Organic Natural Wines With a Green Footprint
Mai Vino wines are handcrafted and organic, always crafted with intention. We’re a female-founded winery based out of New York on a mission the change the organic wine game.
Enjoying a glass of wine shouldn’t be difficult, expensive, or harmful to the environment. We’re proud to create some of the best Orange Wines that are completely free from pesticides and herbicides grown on 80 year old vines.
Enjoying your wine in pouches rather than from a glass bottle reduces wine’s carbon footprint by 80% — that’s something to raise a glass to.
Check out our online wine store to browse our current selection of the best wines online. Our products are also available in over 350 physical retail locations; use our wine store locator to find some Mai Vino near you!
