Orange, The Colour of Fall
From Hammeken Cellars, the same Spanish producer of the immensely popular Radio Boka range of wines, wine lovers may enjoy something quite different and unique. The trees in Ontario are finishing their bright orange fall foliage. The current LCBO Vintages release lists a new wine offering, with a distinct colour, namely one with orange hues. Orange wine is also known as skin-contact or skin-fermented white wine. For this range, the grape skins of the popular Spanish Viura grape are not removed but stay in contact with the juice for an extended period of time that is more typical with red wines. It actually is nothing new and has ancient origins, especially in the middle East where white wines were traditionally fermented and given extended skin exposure in buried amphoras. The result brings out extra depth, texture and flavours characterised with orange or amber hues.
Hailing from central Spain’s expansive Tierra de Castilla region, it’s certified organic and vegan friendly. Exhibiting white flowers, citrus, mineral and herbal tea flavours in the nose, the body is full with a balancing refreshing acidity. Orange wine is stunning with Indian curry, particularly curry blends rich in turmeric, cardamom and/or cinnamon. Also goes beautifully with roast chicken and Moroccan cuisine.