Orange wine has become a bit of an obsession here at Field Recordings (and not just because it’s our brand color). Our signature skin contact orange wine, fittingly named SKINS, unexpectedly became one of our flagship bottles after its first vintage in 2016. Now, you might find dedicated skin contact wine lists at trendy wine bars everywhere. But what’s so special about orange wine, anyway? Let’s get into it.

How is orange wine made?

We make orange wine by letting the grapes ferment on their skins. As our winemaker Andrew Jones says, 85% of a wine’s flavor comes from the outside 15% of the grape, so we source, harvest, and pick fruit based on the quality of their skins. Once those bins get to our cellar, we destem the grapes and allow them to rest on their skins and seeds, anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

Over time, the seeds deliver that lovely amber color, while the skins develop those signature tannins. After enough skin contact, we press to neutral barrels. The result? An end wine that showcases the delicate flavors of white wine, but with more depth, structure, and body.

“Isn’t orange wine just rosé?” you smarty-pants might be wondering. Well, sort of, but not really. Both styles rely on skin contact, but rosé wines are made with red grapes, while orange wines use white grapes. Some of our favorite varietals for orange wine magic are Chenin, Pinot Gris, and Gewurtzaminer.

What do you pair with orange wine?

Honestly? Anything. That’s something we love about orange wine. It holds up well to lighter dishes like seafood, as well as bolder, heavier options. Andrew’s pairing suggestions include Thai food, tacos, porchetta sandwiches, and charcuterie.

What makes Field Recordings skin contact wines different?

Andrew likes to say we make orange wine for skeptics. While some orange wines opt for more bitterness and funk, we try to keep our lineup super approachable. Our Skins, Domo Arigato, and Boxie offerings go down easy, with just enough structure and tannin to set them apart. They’re excellent everyday staples that make you feel just a bit cooler.

And of course, we’re mindful in our winemaking practices. Field Recordings is an OCTO-certified organic winery, and all of our vineyards are sustainable, practicing organic, or certified organic. We source from all around the Central Coast, and about 80% of vineyards use drip irrigation, while 20% are dry farmed. We also use native yeast, no additives, and minimal sulfites. And yes, Field Recordings wines are vegan.