Hey wine lovers! Ever heard of orange wine? If not, you're in for a treat! It's one of those lesser-known gems in the world of wine, and it's absolutely worth exploring. Today, we're diving deep into the world of orange wine, with a special focus on two amazing examples: OSC's VegasSC and Altas. Get ready to have your taste buds tantalized! We will explore what orange wine is, how it's made, and why you should absolutely give it a try. We'll also take a closer look at the unique characteristics of OSC's VegasSC and Altas, two exceptional orange wines that showcase the beauty and complexity of this style. So, grab a glass (or two!), and let's get started on this exciting journey into the world of orange wine! Let's explore everything from the winemaking process and the flavor profiles you can expect, and even some great food pairings to elevate your experience. Trust me, it's a world you won't regret entering. So, pour yourself a glass of something delicious and join me as we discover the wonderful world of orange wine, focusing on the amazing VegasSC and Altas from OSC.

What Exactly is Orange Wine?

So, what exactly is orange wine? Despite the name, it's not made from oranges! Orange wine, sometimes called skin-contact wine, is actually made from white wine grapes. The magic happens during the winemaking process. Unlike traditional white wine, where the grape skins are removed quickly, in orange wine production, the skins are left in contact with the juice for an extended period, typically from several days to several months. This skin contact is what gives the wine its distinctive amber or orange hue, and also imparts unique flavors and textures. It's this extended maceration, or soaking, of the grape skins that allows the extraction of pigments, tannins, and other compounds, resulting in a wine that is more similar in body and structure to red wine. The longer the skin contact, the deeper the color and the more complex the flavors. This method is incredibly ancient, dating back thousands of years to winemaking traditions in places like Georgia (the country, not the state!). It's a testament to the enduring appeal of this unique style of wine.

The resulting wine is often bolder and more textured than your typical white wine, with a spectrum of flavors ranging from dried apricot and orange peel to floral and savory notes. It can be quite complex, often with noticeable tannins that give it a structure more akin to a light-bodied red wine. This process also allows for the extraction of tannins, contributing to the wine's structure, and creating a food-friendly characteristic. The length of skin contact and the grape varietal are two factors that greatly influence the final product. So, when you see that beautiful amber color, just know that you're in for a drinking experience that is a world apart from your average white wine. It's a style that embraces tradition while also offering something refreshingly different.

The Winemaking Process: A Closer Look

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of how orange wine is made. The process is pretty straightforward, but the nuances are where the magic lies. First, you start with white grapes – yes, even though the end result is orange. Popular grape varieties used for orange wine include Pinot Grigio, Riesling, and Gewürztraminer. The key difference compared to white winemaking is the skin contact. Instead of immediately separating the juice from the skins after pressing, the juice is allowed to macerate with the skins. This is similar to how red wine is made. This period of maceration is crucial. It's what extracts the color, tannins, and complex flavors that define orange wine. The longer the maceration, the deeper the color and the more intense the flavors. Some producers opt for a shorter maceration, resulting in lighter-colored wines, while others go for several months, yielding wines with a more robust structure and deeper hues.

After maceration, the wine undergoes fermentation, typically using wild, or native, yeasts. This adds another layer of complexity to the wine. Filtration is often kept to a minimum, and some producers even choose to bottle the wine unfiltered. This hands-off approach allows the wine to express its unique character and terroir. The resulting wine is then aged, often in neutral vessels like stainless steel tanks, or sometimes in oak barrels, which can add additional complexity and texture. This can range from a few months to several years, depending on the winemaker's goals and the style of the wine. So, as you can see, the process is simple in concept but requires a lot of skill and patience. That patience is what brings the unique qualities that make the experience so satisfying.

Unveiling OSC's VegasSC and Altas

Now, let's talk about the stars of the show: OSC's VegasSC and Altas. These two wines perfectly exemplify the beauty of orange wine. While specifics can change from vintage to vintage, here's a general overview of what you can expect from each:

OSC VegasSC

• Appearance: Typically a vibrant amber hue, sometimes leaning towards a deeper orange. This visual appeal is an invitation to explore the wine's depth. It hints at the rich experience that awaits your palate.
• Aroma: Expect a complex bouquet of aromas. You might find notes of dried apricot, orange peel, and honeysuckle, mixed with subtle hints of spice and earthiness. This aromatic profile gives a compelling promise of the flavors to come.
• Flavor: The VegasSC delivers a delicious balance of fruit, and savory notes, often with a hint of bitterness. The tannins are usually well-integrated, providing structure without overpowering the palate. This balance makes it a versatile food wine.
• Texture: The texture is often medium to full-bodied, with a noticeable tannic grip that gives the wine a satisfying mouthfeel. This tactile quality helps VegasSC stand up well to a variety of dishes.

OSC Altas

• Appearance: Expect a slightly deeper shade of orange than the VegasSC, often showcasing its extended skin contact.
• Aroma: Altas often presents a more complex aromatic profile, with notes of dried fruit (like figs and dates), alongside floral and herbal undertones. It might offer an intriguing whiff of savory notes. The aromas provide a tantalizing introduction to the wine's complexity.
• Flavor: On the palate, Altas often displays richer flavors, with a good balance of fruit, tannins, and acidity. You might find notes of apricot, or even a hint of marmalade. The complexity makes each sip a new experience.
• Texture: Generally, Altas has a full-bodied texture with a strong tannic grip, providing a bold and lingering finish. This makes it a great choice for pairing with richer, more robust dishes.

Both the VegasSC and the Altas showcase the potential of orange wine. They are crafted by OSC to offer something unique to wine enthusiasts. If you are looking to step outside your comfort zone, these wines are an excellent starting point.

Pairing Orange Wine with Food: A Match Made in Heaven

Orange wine is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairing. Its unique characteristics allow it to bridge the gap between white and red wines, making it a great match for a wide range of dishes. Because it has the freshness of white wine with the body and structure of red wine, it can handle many different flavors. You'll find that it pairs well with foods that might be tricky for other wines. It has a high acidity and tannins. Here are some of our favorite pairings:

• Spicy Food: Orange wine cuts through the heat of spicy dishes, making it an ideal companion for cuisines like Thai, Indian, or Mexican. The tannins provide a refreshing balance, while the fruit flavors complement the spices.
• Rich Dishes: Try it with roasted chicken, pork, or even richer seafood dishes. The texture and structure of orange wine can stand up to the richness of the food.
• Cheese: It pairs beautifully with a variety of cheeses, especially aged cheeses, such as Gouda and Gruyère. The tannins and acidity cut through the fat, while the complex flavors complement the cheese.
• Vegetarian Dishes: Orange wine is a great choice for vegetarian and vegan dishes. Try it with roasted vegetables, mushroom dishes, or lentil stews. The savory notes in the wine enhance the earthy flavors of the food.
• Middle Eastern Cuisine: The savory notes in many orange wines complement the spices and flavors of Middle Eastern food. Try it with hummus, falafel, or tagines. You may even find new favorites in the process!

Where to Find and Enjoy Orange Wine

So, where can you get your hands on some orange wine? It's becoming increasingly available, but you might need to do a little exploring. Many wine shops and restaurants are starting to stock orange wines, so start by checking out your local wine stores. You can also find them online through various retailers. If you are dining out, check the wine lists at restaurants with a diverse selection. Make sure to talk to the staff. They can help you discover a good bottle. The experience of trying orange wine is worth the effort, and it's a great conversation starter, too. If you are ready to expand your wine horizons, then you can't go wrong. So, get out there and explore this fascinating wine! I hope this guide helps you unlock the world of orange wine and inspires you to try some amazing choices. Cheers, and happy sipping!