'Amfòra' Orange Wine, Villa Noria, Coteaux de Bessilles, France

Duncan Says: A great intro into the world of orange wine

Tasting Notes: An aromatic orange wine with delicate floral notes of rose, quince and apple. The palate is fresh yet rich and harmonious finishing with on a salty note

Grape: Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains 30%, Pinot Gris 30%, Souvignier Gris 20%, Clairette 10%, Piquepoul 10%

Best Enjoyed: An adventurous choice for a cheeseboard.

Good to Know: This orange wine was produced without the addition of sulphites or yeasts. The grapes were macerated with the skins and seeds for three months; the pigment and tannins were released into the wine and imparted the coppery hue. The grapes were gently pressed to release the juice which fermented with natural yeast. Matured in terracotta amphorae, whose natural porousness provides oxygenation thereby reducing the acidity and refining the tannins. The wine was aged in the amphorae on its lees until bottling, which took place without fining and just a gentle filtration.