What is orange wine and how do you drink it?

Curious about orange wine? You’ve come to the right place. From how it’s made to how to enjoy it (plus three of our favourite bottles), this is your go-to guide for discovering one of the most exciting styles in the wine world.

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Florence Head

What is orange wine?

Looking for something a little different in your glass? Say hello to orange wine – a white wine, but not as you know it. Made using time-honoured techniques where the grape skins are left in during fermentation, it takes on a gorgeous orange glow and a richer, bolder flavour than your usual white.

With roots going back over 8,000 years to Georgia, this naturally made wine is having its moment in the spotlight – and once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why. With its striking colour, food-friendly pairings and dry, savoury character, orange wine is one to discover, sip and savour.

How is orange wine made?

Despite what the name suggests, there’s no citrus involved here. Orange wine gets its colour and character from how it’s made – using white grapes, but in the style of a red wine. The juice is left in contact with the grape skins during fermentation, M&S wine expert, Sue Daniels, explains, “this is what gives the wine its beautiful amber colour and unique, rich, complex flavour.”

Many producers still use traditional methods, too. In Georgia – the birthplace of wine – orange wines are often fermented in qvevri, large clay pots lined with beeswax and buried underground. This ancient technique, dating back over 8,000 years, allows for a slow, steady fermentation and brings deliciously developed, oxidative notes to the finished wine.

What does it taste like?

First things first – orange wine doesn’t taste like oranges! “Despite what the name suggests, it has nothing to do with oranges,” says Sue Daniels.

Expect a dry, complex flavour with notes of dried apricot, orange rind, and nuts, plus a savoury edge and a hint of tannin (like strong tea). Some are tangy and zesty, others honeyed and rounded, it all depends on the grapes and winemaking style.

What really sets orange wine apart? It pairs beautifully with foods that usually stump wine: pickles, garlic, spice, even sweet and sour flavours. From bold curries and hot sauces to sharp cheeses, charcuterie, and fermented veg, orange wine just works.

And if you're planning a dinner with lots of different dishes, orange wine’s versatility means it complements small plates – from cheese platters and charcuterie to seafood and beyond. It’s the perfect pick when you want one wine to go with it all.

Best orange wines you need to try this summer

1. Kisi Qvevris

If you’re after something truly special, look to Kisi Qvevris from Georgia – the birthplace of winemaking. This bottle is made using ancient techniques that date back over 8,000 years. Expect flavours of baked apple, dried apricot, honey and nuts, with a soft, savoury finish.

Crafted slowly and naturally, this is a wine with soul – perfect for sipping with roasted veg, hard cheeses or anything with a little spice. One for the wine lovers who enjoy a bit of history in their glass.

2. English Orange Wine

A first for the high street, our own-label English Orange Wine is a unique blend that’s turning heads. Expect fresh, zesty notes of citrus peel, balanced with warming flavours – fresh, exciting, and perfect for those wanting something a little different.

Crafted with care in Canterbury by Defined Wine, using grapes from trusted Kent vineyards, this wine is fermented in a mix of stainless steel, oak barrels and traditional clay amphora. The result? A wine with real depth, character and a touch of rustic charm.

3. Found Verdil

Made from the Verdil grape in the sun-drenched hills of Valencia, this vibrant orange wine is full of character. Think orange zest, floral notes, white tea and just a hint of sea salt for a fresh, savoury twist.

Brilliant with Spanish tapas, grilled seafood or even a bowl of salted almonds, this is one of those wines that looks as good as it tastes. A real gem from our Found wine range.

More about Found wine

Published 6.11.2025