The natural wine movement is gaining traction among wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike, as it offers a unique experience combining traditional winemaking techniques with modern sensibilities. At the forefront of this movement is orange wine, a style of wine made from white grape varieties, but fermented with their skins and seeds intact, resulting in a unique, complex flavor profile and a beautiful orange hue. In this article, we will explore the natural wine movement and why orange wine is gaining popularity.
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What is Natural Wine Movement?
The Natural Wine Movement is a trend in winemaking that seeks to make wines with minimal intervention and manipulation. This includes avoiding the use of chemical additives, synthetic inputs, and any other techniques which might affect the natural character of the wine. The goal of the Natural Wine Movement is to produce wines that are as close to their natural state as possible, and that represent the true character of the grapes and terroir from which they came. Thus, natural winemakers strive to make wines that are reflective of their terroir, rather than being dominated by the winemaker’s style or techniques. These wines often have a unique character that reflects the variations in the environment of the vineyard from which they are made, making them an intriguing addition to a wall to wall wine collection.
What is Orange Wine?
Orange wine is a type of white wine that is made using a process similar to red winemaking. This process involves leaving the white grape skins and juice in contact with each other for an extended time period, typically for several days or weeks. During this period, the juice absorbs the color, flavor, and tannins of the skin, resulting in artisanal creation of natural orange wine.
Orange wines are typically fermented and aged in oak barrels, which can add a layer of complexity to the flavor. The wine can also be aged in stainless steel, which results in a crisper taste. Orange wines are usually dry and can range in alcohol content from 11 to 13 percent. They are typically served chilled and pair well with poultry, fish, and vegetarian dishes.
Why is Orange Wine Gaining Popularity?
The popularity of orange wine is owing to its distinct taste and intricate production techniques. Unlike traditional white or red wines, orange wine is made from white grapes that are fermented with their skins and seeds intact, resulting in a flavor that is often described as being more intense and savory than other wines. The color of orange wine also tends to be a deep golden hue, making it a visually appealing addition to any wine collection.
The production process for orange wine is also of particular interest to many wine-lovers. The grapes are harvested and left to macerate for a period of time before fermentation. This extended maceration period allows the skins and seeds to infuse the juice with tannins and other compounds that give the wine its unique flavor and color. This process is often quite labor-intensive and requires a great deal of skill and knowledge, which is why orange wine tends to be more expensive than other wines.
The flavor profile of orange wine also tends to be quite unique. The extended maceration period often lends the wine notes of dried apricots, quince, and honey. It also tends to be quite acidic, which makes it a great accompaniment to food. The unique flavor profile of orange wine makes it the perfect choice for food pairings, and it is becoming increasingly popular as a sipping wine.
In addition to its unique flavor profile, orange wine is also gaining popularity due to its health benefits. Orange wine is often higher in tannins and polyphenols than other wines, which have been linked to potential health benefits such as improved heart health and reduced risk of certain types of cancer.
Given its unique flavor profile and potential health benefits, it’s no wonder that orange wine is rapidly gaining popularity. For those looking to explore something new in the world of wine, orange wine is a great option.
Conclusion
The natural wine movement has brought orange wine into the spotlight, as more and more wine lovers seek out wines that are made with minimal intervention and additives. Orange wine offers a unique and unconventional drinking experience, with its distinct flavors and textures. It aligns with the growing interest in natural and organic products and pairs well with a wide range of foods. However, orange wine does come with its challenges, and finding high-quality orange wines can be a task in itself. Nevertheless, the popularity of orange wine continues to rise, as wine enthusiasts embrace its complexity and authenticity.
