Georgian Orange Wine: What Is It and How Is It Made?
Georgian orange wine is a type of amber wine made in Georgia. It is thought that Georgian orange wine was first made sometime in the 4th century B.C., making it one of the oldest types of wine in the world!
In this blog post, we'll learn about Amber and Orange wine from Georgia. We will talk about what makes this wine special, how it is made, and who are the best winemakers in the area.
So, what exactly is orange wine? What region has been recognized for its Orange wines? But let’s learn first what Amber wine is?
What is Amber Wine?
Amber wine, also called orange wine, is made from white wine grapes fermented with their skins, just like red wine. This process gives the wine a unique flavor that is often described as tannic and nutty. It also turns the color of the wine to amber or orange. Amber wines are usually made using old-fashioned methods and are often associated with Georgia, Italy, and Slovenia.
Orange Wine
People often use the terms "orange wine" and "amber wine" to discuss the same type of wine. As we said, this type of wine is made by fermenting white grapes with skins. This makes a wine that is amber or orange in color.
The name "amber wine" comes from the color of the wine, which looks like semiprecious gemstone amber. But some people also call this style of wine "orange wine" because the color can sometimes look more orange than amber.
To sum up, both terms can be used to describe the same type of wine: a white wine fermented with its skins, giving it a unique color and flavor that is very different from traditional white wines.
Georgian orange wines can be dry or semi-sweet and often have complex flavor profiles with citrus, spice, and honey notes. Georgian orange wine is an excellent option to try something new and exciting!
How is Georgian Orange Wine Made?
Georgian orange wine is made using a process called maceration. This involves soaking the grape skins in the juice for an extended period, anywhere from a few days to a few months. This process extracts color, flavor, and tannins from the skins into the wine. Georgian orange wines are typically made from white grapes, but red grapes may occasionally be used.
Orange wine is made in Georgia by placing mature grapes with skins, stems, and pips into a Qvevri (a large clay amphora buried into the earth; these have been found dating back to the 6th millennium B.C.). Before being bottled, this is then sealed and left to ferment for 5–6 months. Georgian white wine's distinctive qualities and amber color result from this period of skin maturity.
Qvevri has been used for thousands of years to make wine: Even though qvevri is more popular now, they have been used to make wine in Georgia for more than 8,000 years. In fact, using qvevri to make wine is a tradition that is on the list of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage.
There are different sizes and shapes of qvevri: Most people think of qvevri as big, egg-shaped vessels buried in the ground, but they come in a wide range of sizes and shapes. Some qvevri are tall and thin, while others are shorter and wider.
Qvevri wine is often organic and natural because it is traditionally made. This means they are made with the least help and, most of the time, without adding sulfur.
Qvevri wine is thought to be better for you than other wines because Some studies have shown that the high levels of polyphenols in qvevri wine, which are known for their antioxidant properties, may be good for your health.
Making qvevri wine is a family tradition. In many parts of Georgia, families have been making qvevri wine for generations. This means that the skills and knowledge needed to make qvevri wine have been passed down through the generations and are still a big part of Georgian culture.
Georgian Orange Wine Grapes
Distinct grape varieties of the region are used to make orange wines, with Rkatsiteli being a prominent variety. Mtsvane and Kisi grapes are also often key ingredients in these orange wines. Once pressed, they're stored in jars immediately, with no extra sulfites or seasonings added, sometimes maturing for up to six months. After that, the wine filters itself naturally, and fermentation occurs inside the earthenware jug.
The result is a light golden color with apricot, tangerine, and white peach flavors. The alcohol level is usually around 12.% to 13%.
The Georgian Orange Wine Region
Kakheti is a region in Georgia well-known for its traditional orange wine. The Kakheti region is located in the eastern part of Georgia and is bordered by the Caucasus Mountains. The climate in this region is very hot and dry, with warm summers and cool winters. This climate is ideal for growing grapes, and the Kakheti region is home to many vineyards.
Kakheti was formerly a principality in the Kingdom of Georgia, and it has a long history of viticulture. The region is renowned for its traditional methods of winemaking, which have been passed down from generation to generation. In recent years, the Kakheti region has become increasingly popular with tourists who visit the vineyards and try the local wines.
Taste & Aroma
Georgian orange wines often have complex flavor profiles with citrus, spice, and honey notes. They can be dry or semi-sweet and usually have high acidity. These wines are typically light-bodied with a golden color.
“Georgian orange wine is a unique and fascinating wine rapidly gaining popularity worldwide. With its spicy, earthy flavors and complex aromas, it is a wine that is truly one of a kind.”
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The orange wines of Georgia are unlike anything else you will find on the market. Made from white grapes that are left to ferment with their skins and seeds, these amber-colored wines have a depth of flavor and aroma that is truly remarkable.”
Pairing Georgian Orange Wine
Georgian orange wine pairs well with food that has bold flavors, such as grilled meats or spicy dishes. If you're looking for wine to pair with Georgian food specifically, orange wine is a great option!
Try pairing Georgian orange wine with these recipes:
-Grilled lamb chops with tarragon-mustard sauce
-Spicy chicken stir fry
-Pork tenderloin with apricot-ginger glaze
Some Producer From Georgia
Schuchmann Wines
Schuchmann Wines:
Located in the village of Napareuli in the Kakheti region of Georgia, Schuchmann Wines is another producer of high-quality Georgian orange wine. They have a range of orange wines from different grape varieties, including Rkatsiteli, Mtsvane, and Saperavi.
Pheasant's Tears:
Located in the town of Sighnaghi in eastern Georgia, Pheasant's Tears is a well-known producer of Georgian orange wine. Their wines are made using traditional techniques and are known for their bright, fresh flavors.
Teliani Valley:
Based in the capital city of Tbilisi, Teliani Valley is a large producer of Georgian wine, including several varieties of orange wine. They use a combination of modern and traditional techniques to create their wines, which are known for their depth and complexity.
Tbilvino:
Based in the town of Kvareli in eastern Georgia, Tbilvino produces a wide range of Georgian wines, including several orange wines. Their wines are made using traditional techniques and are known for their bright, fruity flavors.
Checklist for Georgian Orange Wine.
Georgian orange wine is made in Georgia, a country in the Caucasus region of Eastern Europe.
It is made using white grapes left to ferment with their skins and seeds, which gives it its distinctive orange color.
Georgian orange wine has a long history, with the first recorded production dating back to the 4th century B.C. This makes it one of the oldest types of wine in the world.
It is considered an amber wine, which refers to white wines made using techniques similar to red winemaking.
Georgian orange wine is known for its unique flavor and aroma, which is often described as being spicy and earthy.
It is often paired with hearty, savory dishes, such as roasted meats and vegetables or solid and salty cheeses.
Many wine experts consider Georgian orange wine a "natural wine," as it is made using minimal intervention and no added chemicals or preservatives.
It is gaining popularity worldwide as people discover its unique character and taste.
Explore the unique and vibrant world of orange wine at our design store!
Georgian orange wine is an excellent option to try something new and exciting! With its complex flavor profile and unique production process, it's sure to impress any wine lover. So, give Georgian orange wine a try next time you're in the mood for something different!
Cheers!
