Orange Wine: Portugal's Ancient Elixir Rediscovered

What is Orange Wine?

Have you ever wondered what exactly orange wine is? Despite what the name might suggest, orange wine is not made from oranges. Instead, it's a unique style of wine made from white grapes. But here’s the twist: while white wines are typically made by pressing grapes and fermenting the juice without the skins, orange wine is produced by leaving the grape skins in contact with the juice during fermentation. This skin contact gives the wine its distinctive amber or "orange" hue, as well as a richer, more complex flavor profile.

Orange wine has a history that dates back thousands of years, with ancient winemakers in Georgia and Armenia using similar techniques. However, it’s only in recent years that orange wine has made a resurgence, captivating wine enthusiasts and sommeliers alike with its bold flavors and unique character.

How is Orange Wine Made?

Curious about the process behind orange wine? The making of orange wine involves several steps that distinguish it from other types of wine. The process begins with carefully selected white grapes, which are then crushed, and the juice is allowed to ferment with the grape skins and seeds. This can last from a few days to several months, depending on the desired intensity of the wine.

During fermentation, the wine absorbs tannins, phenolics, and other compounds from the skins and seeds, which contribute to its distinctive color and robust taste. Unlike the light, fresh flavors of typical white wines, orange wines tend to be more complex, with notes of dried fruit, nuts, honey, and spice, and a slightly tannic texture that’s more reminiscent of red wine.

The fermentation process can take place in various types of vessels, including stainless steel tanks, clay amphorae (an ancient method), or wooden barrels. Each method imparts its own subtle influence on the final wine, adding another layer of complexity.

Where is Orange Wine Made in Portugal?

But where does Portugal come into the picture? Portugal, with its long and storied wine history, is an ideal location for producing orange wine. The country’s diverse terroirs, ranging from the sun-drenched plains of the Alentejo to the misty valleys of the Douro, provide a variety of conditions perfect for cultivating grapes that lend themselves well to this style of winemaking.

Alentejo: A Revival of Ancient Traditions

One of the most renowned regions for orange wine production in Portugal is the Alentejo, where winemakers have embraced the ancient methods of fermentation in clay amphorae, known locally as "talhas." These amphorae are part of a winemaking tradition that dates back to the Roman times, and they play a crucial role in the production of some of the country’s most interesting orange wines.

Recommended Wine: Laranja Mecânica

Produced in the heart of Alentejo, Laranja Mecânica is a stellar example of the region's revival of traditional winemaking methods. This orange wine is fermented in clay amphorae, resulting in a complex wine with notes of dried citrus peel, apricots, and a touch of herbal undertones. Its tannic structure and earthy finish make it an ideal companion for rich, hearty dishes like roasted lamb or traditional Portuguese feijoada.

Douro Valley: Innovation in a Historic Landscape

The Douro Valley, famous for its Port wine, is another region where you’ll find winemakers experimenting with orange wine. Here, the steep, terraced vineyards that produce grapes for bold reds and luscious ports are also giving birth to orange wines with a unique character, influenced by the region’s schist soils and varied microclimates.

Recommended Wine: Maçanita Laranja do Norte Branco

Produced in the Douro Valley, Maçanita Laranja do Norte Branco is a fine example of this innovative spirit. This orange wine offers a vibrant profile with notes of dried fruits, citrus peel, and subtle floral hints. Its balanced tannins and acidity make it a versatile option for pairing with a variety of dishes, such as grilled seafood or pork with citrus-based sauces.

Recommended Wine: Poças Fora da Série Orange White

This innovative wine from the Douro Valley stands out for its vibrant orange hue and rich, textured profile. Made with traditional Douro grape varieties, Poças Fora da Série Orange White offers an intriguing blend of citrus, honey, and spice, with a pleasant tannic bite. The wine’s complexity and structure make it a perfect match for dishes like grilled seafood or pork with citrus-based sauces.

Recommended Wine: Javali Natural Art Series Edition SG Orange

Also from the Douro Valley, this wine is a testament to the region's innovative spirit. Javali Natural Art Series Edition SG Orange is crafted with minimal intervention, allowing the natural qualities of the grapes to shine through. Expect a complex bouquet of dried apricots, orange peel, and subtle floral notes, coupled with a rich, tannic structure that pairs beautifully with dishes like roasted duck or mushroom risotto.

Which Grapes Are Used to Make Orange Wine in Portugal?

Which grapes are best suited for making orange wine? In Portugal, a variety of indigenous white grape varieties are used to create these wines, each bringing its own distinct qualities to the final product. Some of the most common grape varieties include:

• Roupeiro: Predominantly grown in the Alentejo region, Roupeiro is known for its aromatic qualities, with flavors of citrus and stone fruits. It contributes freshness and complexity to orange wines, often adding a zesty and vibrant character.
• Verdelho: Commonly found in the Madeira and Douro regions, Verdelho grapes bring bright acidity and a rich, tropical fruit profile to orange wines. This grape is prized for its ability to retain freshness, even in warmer climates.
• Códega: Also known as Códega de Larinho, this grape is cultivated in the Douro Valley and adds a floral and slightly herbal note to orange wines. Its natural acidity and aromatic intensity make it a versatile component in blending.

Why is Orange Wine Gaining Popularity?

Why is orange wine suddenly the talk of the town? Orange wine’s rise in popularity can be attributed to a few key factors. First, there’s the growing interest in natural and low-intervention wines. Orange wines often fit this category because they are typically made with minimal additives and sometimes with organic or biodynamic grapes. This appeals to consumers who are looking for wines that are more reflective of their terroir and less manipulated in the winery.

Secondly, orange wine’s unique flavor profile sets it apart from the more traditional white and red wines. For wine enthusiasts looking to try something new and different, orange wine offers an intriguing alternative. The tannic structure and complex flavors make it an excellent choice for pairing with a wide range of foods, from spicy dishes to rich, savory meats, and even hard-to-pair vegetables like artichokes and asparagus.

Lastly, orange wine’s vibrant color and often eye-catching labels make it a popular choice for the Instagram generation. The visual appeal of orange wine adds to its allure, making it a fun and trendy option for social gatherings and special occasions.

How Does Orange Wine Taste?

Wondering how orange wine tastes? Describing the flavor of orange wine can be challenging because it varies widely depending on the grape variety, the length of skin contact, and the region where it’s made. However, there are some common tasting notes that many orange wines share.

Orange wines often have a rich, full-bodied texture with a tannic bite, similar to a red wine. On the nose, you might find aromas of dried apricots, orange peel, nuts, and spices like cinnamon or cloves. On the palate, these wines can range from fruity to savory, with flavors of stone fruits, honey, tea, and herbs. The finish is often long and slightly astringent, leaving a lingering impression of the wine’s complexity.

Despite their robust flavors, orange wines are typically quite versatile when it comes to food pairings. Their acidity and tannins can stand up to a variety of dishes, making them an excellent choice for adventurous eaters.

Which Foods Pair Best with Orange Wine?

What foods pair well with orange wine? Given its complex and varied flavor profile, orange wine is surprisingly versatile when it comes to food pairings. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Cheese Platters: Orange wine pairs wonderfully with a variety of cheeses, particularly aged cheeses like Gouda, Manchego, or Comté. The wine’s tannins and acidity cut through the richness of the cheese, creating a balanced pairing.
• Grilled Meats: The robust nature of orange wine makes it a great match for grilled meats, particularly those with a smoky or spicy flavor. Think of dishes like lamb chops, BBQ ribs, or even a juicy steak.
• Mediterranean Cuisine: Dishes featuring olives, roasted vegetables, and aromatic herbs find a natural companion in orange wine. A classic pairing would be a dish like ratatouille or a mezze platter with hummus, baba ghanoush, and pita.
• Asian Cuisine: The aromatic spices and bold flavors of Asian cuisine, particularly Indian and Middle Eastern dishes, pair beautifully with the complex flavors of orange wine. Try it with a lamb tagine, a spicy curry, or a plate of mezze.
• Seafood: While red wines often overpower delicate seafood dishes, orange wine strikes a balance. Pair it with grilled octopus, roasted salmon, or a seafood stew for a match made in heaven.

Where Can You Find the Best Portuguese Orange Wines?

Where should you look to find the best Portuguese orange wines? Portugal’s wine scene is buzzing with innovation, and several producers are leading the charge when it comes to high-quality orange wines. Here are a few regions and wineries that are worth exploring:

• Alentejo: Known for its warm climate and tradition of winemaking in talhas, Alentejo is a hub for some of Portugal’s most exciting orange wines. Look for producers like Laranja Mecânica, whose wines showcase the rich history and bold flavors of this region.
• Douro Valley: Traditionally associated with Port wine, the Douro Valley is also home to some innovative orange wine producers. Maçanita Laranja do Norte Branco, Poças Fora da Série Orange White, and Javali Natural Art Series Edition SG Orange are must-try options, reflecting both the traditional and modern winemaking techniques of the region.

Why Should You Try Orange Wine?

Why give orange wine a try? If you’re a wine lover looking to expand your horizons, orange wine offers a unique opportunity to explore a style that’s both ancient and modern. Its bold flavors, rich history, and versatile nature make it a wine that’s worth seeking out, whether you’re enjoying a meal at home, hosting a dinner party, or simply exploring new tastes.

Orange wine is not just a trend; it’s a rediscovery of an ancient practice that has found new relevance in today’s wine world. Whether you’re a fan of white, red, or rosé, orange wine offers something different—a chance to taste history in a glass, while also embracing the future of winemaking.

Conclusion

In the world of wine, orange wine stands out as a symbol of both tradition and innovation. From the ancient clay amphorae of Alentejo to the steep vineyards of the Douro, Portugal’s winemakers are breathing new life into this ancient style, creating wines that are as complex and intriguing as the land they come from.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for something different, why not reach for a bottle of Portuguese orange wine? Whether you’re pairing it with a hearty meal, enjoying it with friends, or simply savoring its unique flavors on its own, orange wine promises an experience like no other.

Ready to explore the world of Portuguese orange wine? Start your journey with some of the best producers from Portugal’s top wine regions and discover the magic for yourself. Cheers!