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'It's gorgeous': Aldi launches new orange wine - after Rosorange hit

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/25 .. aunches-new-orange-wine-after-rosorange-hit.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, September 25th 2025 at 9:41 GMT by The Scotsman
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Aldi’s New Orange Wine: A Fresh, Affordable Twist on a Rising Trend

Aldi’s latest foray into the world of wine may surprise those who associate the discount retailer only with pantry staples and frozen entrees. The chain’s newest offering—an orange wine sold in a modest 75 cl bottle—has taken the grocery‑shop wine aisle by storm, combining the distinctive dry‑skin, white‑grape production method that has propelled orange wines into mainstream consciousness with Aldi’s trademark value proposition. The product, launched in March 2024, is currently on sale for just £3.99 (around $4.75) and has already earned glowing reviews from both home‑drinkers and wine professionals.

What Is an Orange Wine?

Before we dive into the specifics of Aldi’s bottle, it’s worth pausing to explain what makes an orange wine tick. Unlike the red, white and rosé varieties that dominate the market, orange wine is produced from white‑grape varieties that are fermented with their skins. The grape skins impart a distinctive amber hue, a richer tannic structure, and a range of aromatics—from dried apricots and citrus zest to subtle earthy nuances. While the style has its roots in ancient winemaking traditions—especially in the Caucasus and Anatolia—recent decades have seen a resurgence among boutique wineries that experiment with “skin‑contact” techniques on grapes such as Mourvèdre, Gewürztraminer and Grenache Blanc. The result is a dry, full‑bodied wine that stands up to both lighter dishes (salads, seafood) and richer fare (grilled meats, aged cheeses).

The Aldi Bottle: A Quick Overview

• Name & Source: While Aldi keeps the product name vague to preserve their “white label” mystique, the wine is sourced from a Spanish producer in the Alicante region, known for its dry‑skin, high‑quality white varieties. The producer’s own website—linked in the Scotsman article—provides a brief history of their traditional winemaking techniques and a map of their vineyards.
• ABV & Body: At 10.5 % alcohol by volume, the wine sits squarely in the medium‑body range. The skin contact phase lasted roughly 20 days, giving the wine a slight tannic backbone that’s balanced by a crisp acidity.
• Tasting Notes: The initial nose is layered with citrus peel, dried apricots, and a faint herbaceous undertone. On the palate, the wine offers a dry, almost bone‑dry finish, with a subtle tannic structure that gives it a lingering, satisfying aftertaste. A small “earthy” bite—often described as a whisper of stone or soil—adds depth without overwhelming the fruit.
• Pairing Suggestions: The Scotsman article highlights pairing the wine with grilled fish (particularly sardines), goat cheese, and salads that feature citrus or olives. The dryness and slight tannin make it a surprisingly versatile accompaniment for a range of cuisines, from Mediterranean to Middle Eastern.

The Bigger Picture: Aldi’s Rising Wine Credibility

Aldi’s new orange wine is not an isolated experiment. In the years since the retailer first entered the wine space, it has built a reputation for curating high‑quality, low‑price options. The “Blue Box” range—Aldi’s premium‑value line—has consistently featured a rotating selection of international and domestic wines, and the new orange wine follows the same model. According to the retailer’s press release (linked in the article), Aldi’s procurement team works directly with producers to secure “hand‑picked” barrels at a fraction of the cost that larger retailers pay, allowing them to keep the price to consumers low while maintaining quality.

The Scotsman piece also notes that Aldi’s orange wine is part of a broader trend toward “unclassical” wine styles in mainstream supermarkets. As more consumers look beyond traditional red and white labels, retailers that can offer distinctive, well‑reviewed alternatives stand to capture a growing niche.

Expert Insight: Why the White Label Is a Win

The article includes an interview with a local sommelier who has sampled Aldi’s orange wine at several tasting events. He describes the wine as “the best I’ve seen at this price point,” pointing out the fine balance between the fruitiness and the skin‑derived tannin. He also underscores that the wine’s dry character makes it a good “first step” for novices who are intrigued by the concept of orange wine but hesitant to commit to more expensive, complex bottles.

An additional link in the Scotsman article directs readers to a comprehensive guide on how to taste orange wines, covering everything from glassware to serving temperature. This guide explains that orange wines are best served slightly chilled (around 10–12 °C) to accentuate their crispness, and that a wide‑bore glass helps release the aromatic complexity.

Where to Find It (And What to Do With It)

The new bottle is available across Aldi supermarkets in the UK, and the retailer’s online grocery platform lists it as a “today’s special” for a limited time. For those who want to try it with a meal, the Scotsman article suggests pairing it with a grilled lamb kebab seasoned with cumin and paprika, as the wine’s earthy undertones complement the spice profile.

If you’re interested in exploring more of the “skin‑contact” world, the article links to a local wine shop that carries a selection of orange wines from the same producer, offering a chance to compare Aldi’s version to a few other bottles at a higher price point.

Bottom Line

Aldi’s new orange wine proves that even a retailer known for bargains can step into the more nuanced world of wine without sacrificing quality. With a price point that can’t be beaten, an accessible yet distinctive flavor profile, and a clear nod to the growing popularity of skin‑contact wines, the product is poised to become a favorite for both seasoned oenophiles and curious newcomers alike. Whether you’re looking to experiment with a new style on a budget, or simply want a versatile, dry wine to pair with a variety of dishes, Aldi’s orange wine offers a compelling, no‑fuss option that stands out in the crowded supermarket aisle.