Top Orange Wines to Gift This Christmas, According to Gambero Rosso

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Discover the allure of orange wine, a timeless trend with complex flavors and rich history. Perfect for holiday gifting under $50!

Introduction

The world of wine is ever-evolving, and one of the most captivating trends in recent years has been the rise of orange wine—also known as white wine macerated. While some trends come and go, orange wines have established themselves firmly in the hearts and glasses of enthusiasts across various regions. As noted by The Guardian, this style is not just a fleeting fad; it has become a staple on tables from London to Italy, especially during festive occasions like Christmas when unique wines make for perfect gifts.

So, what makes orange wines so special? The answer lies in their unique maceration process. By allowing white grape must to remain in contact with the skins for varying periods—from mere hours to several months—producers create wines that boast an intriguing amber hue and complex flavor profiles. Shorter maceration times yield bright golden colors with fresh aromas, while extended contact results in deeper, almost tannic orange hues that surprise even seasoned drinkers.

These wines are not merely modern inventions; they trace their roots back over 3,000 years to ancient Georgian winemaking practices that utilized kvevri—large buried clay vessels for fermentation. UNESCO recognizes this tradition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, showcasing the depth of history behind every bottle. In Italy, pioneers like Joško Gravner and Stanko Radikon revived these methods in the 1990s, introducing them to new audiences and regions.

As we approach the holiday season, many may consider gifting a bottle of orange wine. With numerous options available under $50, it’s easier than ever to find something truly special.

Understanding Orange Wine

What Is Orange Wine?

Orange wine is crafted from white grapes through a process similar to red winemaking: prolonged skin contact during fermentation. This technique results in an array of textures and flavors that are both intriguing and diverse.

• Color: The distinct amber hue arises from the extraction of pigments found in grape skins.
• Flavor Profile: Orange wines can exhibit notes ranging from stone fruits like apricot and peach to herbal qualities such as thyme or rosemary.
• Tannins: The skin contact also introduces tannins, which provide structure and complexity often absent in traditional white wines.

The Maceration Process

The magic happens during maceration:

• Short Maceration (Hours): Yields lighter colored wines with fresher aromas.
• Long Maceration (Months): Produces richer, more textured wines with pronounced tannins.

This flexibility allows winemakers to express their creativity while tailoring each batch to specific flavor profiles suited for different pairings or occasions.

The History Behind Orange Wine

Ancient Practices

The origins of orange wine can be traced back thousands of years, particularly within Georgian culture where kvevri have been used for millennia. These earthen vessels allow natural fermentation processes without modern interventions like temperature control or selected yeast strains.

• Cultural Significance: This method is recognized globally for its historical importance and influence on contemporary winemaking techniques.
• Sustainability: Many producers today embrace organic or biodynamic farming methods akin to those used by ancient winemakers.

Modern Revival

In Italy’s Friuli region during the 1990s, winemakers like Gravner and Radikon began experimenting with these ancient techniques:

• Revitalization of Traditions: They sought to reconnect with their cultural heritage by reviving long-forgotten practices.
• New Territories: Today’s production extends beyond Friuli into regions such as Sicily and Tuscany, showcasing how versatile this style can be.

Recommendations for Holiday Gifting

When considering orange wines for holiday gifting, it’s essential to choose options that reflect quality without breaking the bank. Here’s a curated list of notable selections under $50 based on tastings from Gambero Rosso’s annual guide:

Top Picks

1. Ribolla Gialla 2020 – Paraschos

   • Tasting Notes: Malted barley, beeswax, canned peaches.
   • Region: Friuli-Venezia Giulia
   • Price: Approx. $35

2. Collio Friulano Miklus 2019 – Draga

   • Tasting Notes: Quince jam, ripe banana, honey.
   • Region: Friuli-Venezia Giulia
   • Price: Approx. $40

3. Vitovska 6/7 Ris. 2021 – Skerlj

   • Tasting Notes: White and yellow fruit explosion with hints of honey and spices.
   • Region: Carso
   • Price: Approx. $45

4. Zagreo 2022 – I Cacciagalli

   

   • Tasting Notes: White pepper, ginger candy, green citrus.
   • Region: Campania
   • Price: Approx. $30

5. Siriki Orange 2017 – Cantina dei Principi di Spadafora

   • Tasting Notes: Resinous notes combined with dried citrus peel.
   • Region: Sicily
   • Price: Approx. $48

Each of these selections offers a unique expression of their respective terroirs while maintaining high quality at reasonable prices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What food pairs well with orange wine?

Orange wines are incredibly versatile due to their complex flavor profiles:

• Rich dishes like duck or pork
• Spicy Asian cuisine
• Aged cheeses

How should I serve orange wine?

Serve at slightly chilled temperatures (around 50°F) to enhance its aromatic qualities while maintaining its structure.

Are all orange wines organic?

Not all orange wines are produced organically; however, many producers embrace sustainable practices due to the philosophy behind natural winemaking.

Conclusion

As we delve deeper into the world of orange wine this holiday season, we uncover not just a unique beverage but also a rich tapestry woven from ancient traditions and modern innovations. With their complex flavors and stunning visuals, these wines make excellent gifts that will surely delight any wine lover on your list. Whether you’re enjoying them at your holiday table or sharing them as thoughtful presents, orange wines promise memorable experiences rooted in history—perfect for celebrating life’s moments together.

Photo by Kelsey Knight on Unsplash