The Rise of Skin Contact Wines
In recent years, the world of wine has seen a resurgence of interest in traditional winemaking methods, leading to the rise of skin-contact wines (A.K.A orange wines). Is it a trend? Or is there a method behind the madness?
How It's Done
Although orange wine has indeed seen a rise in popularity during recent years, the production of it in some regions has existed thousands of years before white wine. But how is it done?
The technique (reminiscent of ancient winemaking traditions) contrasts with conventional white production. With white wine, skins are typically removed quickly and discarded to prevent coloration and tannin extraction.
With orange wine however, the skins are left to soak in the juice adding colour, tannins and unique flavours to the wine. This is a process called maceration (and is the very same that red wine goes through)
This revival has been embraced by winemakers worldwide, from the rolling hills of Italy's Friuli region to the vineyards of Slovenia and Georgia, where such methods have been practiced for millennia. Their food-friendly nature, characterized by textured mouthfeel and layered flavours, makes them particularly appealing for pairing with a variety of cuisines.
Some of Our Favourites
Finca Casa Balaguer, Tragolago Blanco, 2023
Finca Casa Balaguer's Tragolargo Blanco 2023 is an organic orange wine from Alicante, Spain, made from Moscatel and Malvasia grapes. It has a deep yellow to amber hue due to 30-day skin maceration. Aromas of white stone fruits, elderflower, and orange blossom lead to a juicy, mineral-driven palate with fresh acidity and a soft mouthfeel. Unfiltered and unfined, this 12.5% ABV wine captures its terroir while remaining both complex and approachable—an ideal introduction to orange wines.
Tanca Nica's Soki Soki 2023 is a distinctive skin contact wine from the island of Pantelleria, just off the coast of Sicily. made from 80-year-old Zibibbo vines grown in sandy, volcanic soils. Vinified separately from eleven parcels, maceration ranges from one day to three weeks, followed by maturation on fine lees in various vessels, including stainless steel, fiberglass, chestnut barrels, and glass demijohns. The result is a complex, aromatic wine with Mediterranean herb notes, vibrant texture, and a lingering finish—an authentic expression of Pantelleria's terroir.
Tenuta Grillo, Baccabianca, 2016
The Tenuta Grillo Baccabianca 2016 is a unique, skin-contact white wine made from 100% Cortese grapes in Piedmont. Aged in large neutral oak barrels, it showcases a deep golden hue with rich aromatics of dried apricot, honey, orange zest, and herbal notes. The palate offers a textured, tannic structure with vibrant acidity and a long, complex finish. A fantastic example of natural winemaking, it pairs well with aged cheeses, seafood, and hearty vegetable dishes.
Chateau St Cyrgues, Salamandre Orange, 2024
Château Saint-Cyrgues Salamandre Orange 2024 is an organic orange wine crafted from Grenache Blanc grapes in the Costières de Nîmes region of France. This skin-contact wine undergoes a 10-day maceration period, imparting a gentle tannic structure and a pink-tinged hue. Tasting notes highlight floral aromas and flavors of juicy peach, complemented by a refreshing minerality. With an alcohol content of 12.5%, it's an approachable introduction to orange wines, offering a balance of subtle grip and bright, summery characteristics.
Hors Champ, La Femme Soleil, 2023
La Femme Soleil 2023 is a white wine from Domaine Hors Champ in Roussillon, France. Made from 50% Macabeu and 50% Grenache Gris, the grapes come from 70-year-old vines on schist soil. Organically farmed and hand-harvested, it's fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel and barrel, without fining, filtering, or added sulfites. The wine features peach and pear notes, a silky texture, and bright acidity. Perfect with vegetarian dishes, poultry, pasta, lean fish, or as an aperitif.
Fancy having a look at more orange wines in a variety of styles from many different countries and regions? Then take a look at our website.