Solis Lumen Orange Wine

Solis Lumen is an orange wine from Esplanda, made in Massachusetts. The label details we have don't name the grape, vintage or alcohol level, so the notes below describe what orange wines typically offer, not a measured profile of this bottle. The style means white grapes fermented with their skins, which gives amber to copper colour and a structure closer to a light red than a conventional white. Expect aromas of dried apricot, orange peel, tea leaf and sometimes honeyed or nutty notes. On the palate, styles like this usually show medium to full body, firm but fine-grained tannin from the skin contact, and bright acidity that keeps the texture from turning heavy. Oak is generally minimal in this category, so the character comes from the fruit and skins. The finish tends to be dry and slightly bitter in a pleasant, tea-like way. A short stretch of sediment or haze is common and not a flaw. Serve it cool but not cold, around 12 to 14°C (54 to 57°F). Fridge temperature will mute the aromatics and make the tannin feel sharper, so pull the bottle out about 20 minutes before pouring. Decanting isn't required, but a short time in the glass or a quick splash into a carafe can open up the more savoury notes. A medium-sized white wine glass with a modest bowl works well. A universal glass also suits it, since the wine benefits from room for its aromatics. At the table, the tannin and acidity make orange wine adaptable. Expect good results with roasted carrots and squash, hummus and flatbreads, grilled halloumi, Moroccan-spiced chicken, lamb kofta, aged hard cheeses and dishes with preserved lemon or toasted nuts. It also handles the heat in mild curries better than most whites. As a rule, treat it as a drink-now bottle: most wines of this type are made for fresh enjoyment over the next year or two, not long cellaring.