2023 Giornata "Orangotango" San Luis Obispo White Blend (Orange Wine): A Bold and Intriguing Orange Wine

Discover the unique and vibrant character of the 2023 Giornata "Orangotango", an orange wine that pushes the boundaries of traditional white winemaking. Crafted in San Luis Obispo by Giornata Winery, this wine showcases a blend of Italian-inspired white varieties made with extended skin contact, creating a distinctive profile that combines the complexity of red wine with the freshness of a white.

Winery Background and Philosophy

Giornata Winery is renowned for its focus on Italian grape varieties and innovative winemaking techniques, inspired by the traditions of Italy while embracing the unique terroir of California’s Central Coast. The "Orangotango" label represents Giornata’s adventurous spirit, blending white grapes and allowing them to ferment on their skins, resulting in an orange wine that is aromatic, textured, and full of character.

Vineyard and Terroir

Sourced from sustainably farmed vineyards in San Luis Obispo, the grapes for Orangotango benefit from a cool coastal climate, which helps to preserve acidity and enhance aromatic complexity. The combination of calcareous soils and ocean breezes adds a mineral edge to the wine, providing a balance to the bold flavors that develop during skin contact.

Winemaking Process

The 2023 Orangotango is made with a unique blend of white grape varieties, including Pinot Grigio, Falanghina, Malvasia, and others, that undergo fermentation on their skins. This process, common in orange wine production, extracts tannins, color, and additional flavors, giving the wine its distinctive orange hue and structured mouthfeel. After fermentation, the wine is aged briefly in neutral vessels to maintain its vibrant character while adding depth.

Tasting Notes

Color: The 2023 Orangotango showcases a bright amber-orange color with golden reflections, characteristic of its extended skin contact.

Aroma: On the nose, this wine is expressive and aromatic, with notes of dried apricot, orange zest, and wildflowers, complemented by hints of herbal tea, honey, and a subtle touch of spice.

Palate: The palate is medium-bodied and textured, with a balanced acidity that enlivens flavors of peach, tangerine, and ripe pear. The tannins, unusual for a white wine, add structure and complexity, leading to a dry, slightly nutty finish with hints of ginger and chamomile.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The 2023 Giornata Orangotango is versatile and pairs well with a range of foods:

• Asian Cuisine: Complements Thai curries, sushi, and dim sum, where the wine’s structure and acidity balance bold, spicy flavors.
• Cheeses: Enjoy with aged goat cheese, Brie, or blue cheese, where the wine’s tannins and texture enhance the creaminess of the cheese.
• Grilled Vegetables: Pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables, grilled asparagus, or artichokes, highlighting the wine’s earthy and savory notes.
• Poultry and Game: Works well with duck, turkey, or quail, where the wine’s complexity matches the richness of the dish.