Abstract:
Over the past few decades, there has been a notable paradigm shift
worldwide, affecting people’s preferences and decisions regarding both food
and beverage options. These factors have sparked a new found fascination
among winemakers, wine enthusiasts, and consumers alike, as they explore the
notion of reconnecting with a bygone era and embracing a lifestyle reminiscent
of the past. “Orange” wine, a product derived from white grapes, encapsulates
the intriguing allure of ancient winemaking methods that trace their roots back
to Georgia. The method enables an elevated presence of phenolic compounds,
which can have a favorable influence on the sensory characteristics of the wines
or their behavior during oxidative processes. Given the scarcity of widespread
knowledge, this overview aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the
historical evolution of winemaking and its various transformations over the
years. It delves into the intricacies of winemaking technology, particularly
focusing on the unique utilization of qvevri vessels. In addition to traditional
sources, this review examines the influence of winemaking technology and the
utilization of special vessels on the characteristics of “orange” wines. It
explores the unique traits that develop in these wines as a result of prolonged
maceration. By considering the impact of these factors, the review offers
insights into the distinct qualities and attributes that emerge in “orange” wines
during the winemaking process.