Discover Alternative Wine Styles to Refresh Your Palate Beyond Orange Wine

In recent discussions among wine enthusiasts in major cities like Paris, New York, and Los Angeles, a noticeable shift in taste is emerging: many are starting to tire of orange wine. Despite its ancient winemaking process — fermenting white grapes with their skins — there’s a growing perception that orange wine is just another passing trend, similar to the collective burnout some experienced with rosé. Though orange wine holds a special place in the heart of many, including the author of this piece, it could be time to explore alternative styles that still offer the rich textures and complexities found in amber wines.

Alsatian Riesling

A particular favorite of sommelier Claire King from Nimmo Bay in British Columbia is the Alsatian Riesling. Unlike its German counterpart, which often varies greatly in sweetness and tends to be lighter, Alsatian Rieslings are predominantly dry with a fuller body, offering a unique minerality along with hints of gunflint and white flowers. These savory and herbal notes make it an ideal choice as the seasons shift, particularly for those who enjoy a white with both body and texture.

Dry Sherry

Sherry is often underappreciated, particularly in North America, yet it boasts a variety of styles that can enthrall those accustomed to orange wines. Originally unenamored with fortified flavors, the author’s introduction to a glass of Fino Sherry changed their perception completely. Dry and saline with notes of almonds and citrus, there is an impressive diversity in Sherry’s offerings such as Fino, Manzanilla, and Oloroso—all worthy of exploration, especially for those willing to discover new flavors akin to those in orange wine.

Cyder

A recent visit to The Newt in Somerset introduced a delightful cyder experience that reshaped the author’s views on hard cider. Crafted with only 100% freshly pressed apple juice, it shares similarities with the winemaking process, yielding complex flavors and bright acidity. The Wyvern Wing cyder particularly stood out, echoing a pét-nat vibe with citrus notes, while the Dabinett variety, with its strong tannins, offers a texture reminiscent of orange wines.

Swartland Whites

During a safari in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, the author discovered the Swartland wine region, known for its rebellious winemakers. With a focus on Chenin Blanc and Rhône varieties like Roussanne, Swartland whites provide a stunning balance of fruit density and savory florals. These wines are becoming some of the most sought-after in the wine world, making them a must-try.

Vostilidi

While in France at Hôtel Belles Rives, dinner introduced the author to Vostilidi, an ancient Greek grape from Kefalonia. This lesser-known variety offers unique, orange-like flavors even with minimal skin contact, making it a rare gem for those fond of exploring new wines.

Champagne de Vigneron

Upon exploring options on the French Riviera, a particular recommendation was Champagne de Vigneron, made by very small producers. Unlike your typical festive Champagne, this variety is denser and pairs well with rich autumn meals, presenting a full-bodied option that can complement everything from game meats to earthy mushrooms.

Each of these alternatives not only broadens the scope of one’s wine palate but also respects the craftsmanship that comes with varied winemaking traditions. For those feeling an orange wine fatigue, these recommendations will bring fresh excitement to your glass.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!