19/05/2026
Though not the newest kid on the block, orange wine is still having it's moment in the sun, showcased on wine lists throughout the land; from the humble pub to the edgiest of wine bars. But, what exactly is it? Simply, with usual white wine production pressing the juice from the grapes and removing the skins before fermentation, orange AKA skin contact wines leave the two together for an extended period. The result? A complex wine with an array of bold flavours and noticeable tannin, more like a red than a white, with a tinge of orange coming from the skins. What does it taste like? Flavours range from ripe tropical, stone fruit and orange to nuts and honey depending on the grape, usually with striking acidity. Great for matching with strong flavoured food alongside both meat and fish.
Want to give it a shot? Try Cathartic 'Fool Me Twice' skin contact macabeo. At the bargain bin end price of £10, it's a great, affordable option to try the style out.
