WHAT IS SKIN CONTACT WINE? A BEGINNER'S GUIDE

Skin contact wine goes by several names — orange wine, amber wine, skin-fermented wine. Whatever you call it, it is one of the most exciting and distinctive styles of wine being made today.

WHAT IS SKIN CONTACT WINE?

Skin contact wine is made from white grapes that are left in contact with their skins during fermentation — unlike conventional white wine, where the skins are immediately removed after pressing.

During the maceration period (which can last from a few days to several months), the skins release colour, tannins, antioxidants, and flavour compounds into the juice. The result is a wine with an amber or orange hue, more texture than conventional white wine, and significantly more complexity.

WHY IS IT CALLED ORANGE WINE IF IT IS MADE FROM WHITE GRAPES?

The orange colour comes from the grape skins — not from orange fruit. White grape skins contain compounds that, when extracted over time, turn the wine amber or orange. The term orange wine refers to the colour, not the flavour or ingredients.

WHAT DOES SKIN CONTACT WINE TASTE LIKE?

Skin contact wines vary enormously depending on the grape variety, the length of maceration, and the winemaker's approach. In general, expect more texture and tannin than conventional white wine, more complex aromatics, and often some dried fruit or nutty notes alongside the fresh fruit character.

Arriba, with 7 days skin contact, is lively and vibrant — tropical fruit with natural bubbles. Skin Deep, with Verdejo and a slightly different maceration approach, is fresh and expressive with real depth.

BOTH AVAILABLE AT LOCOWINES.CO.UK

Try Arriba if you want sparkling orange wine. Try Skin Deep if you want a still, vibrant skin contact wine. Both are certified organic, vegan friendly, and genuinely approachable.