Orange wine can be both dry and sweet, depending on the winemaking process and the preferences of the winemaker. Traditionally, orange wines are fermented to be dry, meaning that all of the natural sugars in the grapes are converted into alcohol during the fermentation process. This results in a wine that is not sweet and has a more intense and robust flavor profile.
However, there are some orange wines that are made with a slight residual sugar, giving them a touch of sweetness. This can be achieved by stopping the fermentation process before all of the sugars are converted into alcohol, or by adding a small amount of unfermented grape juice to the finished wine.
When orange wines are made with a touch of sweetness, they can exhibit different flavor profiles compared to their dry counterparts. The sweetness can enhance the fruit flavors in the wine, creating a more rounded and luscious mouthfeel. Some orange wines with a hint of sweetness may also have floral or honeyed notes, adding complexity to the overall flavor profile.
It's important to note that the sweetness in orange wines is typically not overpowering and is often well-balanced with the other flavor components. The level of sweetness can vary from wine to wine, so it's always a good idea to check the label or ask the producer for more information if you prefer a specific level of sweetness in your wine.
In my personal experience, I have come across orange wines that range from bone dry to slightly off-dry. Each wine had its own unique characteristics and flavor profile, which made the tasting experience quite interesting. I find that the dry orange wines tend to have a more pronounced tannin structure and a more intense flavor profile, while the off-dry ones are often more approachable with a softer mouthfeel.
Orange wine can be both dry and sweet, depending on the winemaking process and the preferences of the winemaker. Whether you prefer a dry or slightly sweet orange wine, there are plenty of options available to explore and enjoy the unique flavors and characteristics that these wines have to offer.