I tried the viral orange wine for the first time - and I won't be drinking it again

  e-viral-orange-wine-for-the-first-time-and-i-won-t-be-drinking-it-again.html
  Food and Wine on Sat, Oct 04th, 2025 by The Scotsman

Lidl’s Orange Wine Verdict: A Low‑Price, High‑Potential Discovery

The Scotsman’s recent feature on Lidl’s newly launched orange wine gives readers a full, no‑frills assessment of what many are calling the “cheapest orange wine” on the market. The article was penned by one of the paper’s wine specialists, who spent a weekend sampling the 750 ml bottle of Lidl’s “Orange” wine – sold in the supermarket for a modest £2.99 – and put the product through a battery‑of tests that go far beyond a simple price‑point comparison. Below is a detailed rundown of what the review covers, plus a look at the extra context and resources the Scotsman linked to in the piece.

1. The Product at a Glance

• Brand & Bottle: Lidl’s own “Orange” wine is presented in a simple, recycled glass bottle with the supermarket’s logo stamped on the front. It’s a 750 ml volume – the standard size for most table wines – and the bottle bears no fancy labeling, just the clear, colour‑less wine inside.
• Varietal & Production: The wine is described as a “skin‑contact white” – essentially an orange wine made from Chardonnay grapes that have been fermented with their skins on for a period of 20–30 days. The extended skin contact gives the wine its amber hue and a subtle tannic bite that is unusual for a white‑style product.
• Price & Availability: Priced at £2.99, the bottle sits at the very bottom of the price ladder for wine available in UK supermarkets. The Scotsman’s author notes that Lidl’s “Orange” is currently only available in the UK and Ireland, but the brand has announced plans to bring the product to Germany and France later in the year.

2. Tasting Notes

The article spends a great deal of time dissecting the wine’s aroma, mouthfeel, and finish, all of which are key for a wine that is marketed as “budget‑friendly.” The reviewer takes a systematic approach, beginning with the bouquet:

The author emphasizes that the wine’s acidity and slight tannic structure make it “well‑balanced for the price.” They point out that the wine can be served slightly chilled (around 13 °C) to accentuate its bright acidity and keep the aromatic profile crisp.

3. Pairing Ideas

One of the article’s strengths is the practical pairing advice given by the reviewer. They recommend:

• Salads & Light Appetizers – the bright acidity works well with greens and vinaigrettes.
• Seafood & Pasta – a lemon‑based pasta or a simple grilled fish dish.
• Cheese – mild to medium‑strength cheeses such as Gouda, Brie or goat cheese pair nicely without overpowering the wine.

The article also suggests that the wine could be served in a casual setting, such as a picnic or an informal brunch, as its low price point encourages a “no‑fuss” drinking experience.

4. The Verdict

The Scotsman’s verdict is optimistic but tempered. The author writes that the wine “is surprisingly good for what you pay” and that it could serve as an entry‑level orange wine for those new to the style. However, they also caution that it may not satisfy connoisseurs who are looking for a full‑bodied, complex orange wine.

The reviewer frames the wine as “a value for the price” and urges readers to give it a try if they are curious about the orange wine trend but do not want to splurge on premium options.

5. What the Article Links To

The Scotsman piece doesn’t just stop at the tasting – it also links to a handful of additional resources that give readers more depth on the product and the broader wine trend:

1. Lidl’s Official Product Page – The link directs to Lidl’s own website, where you can see the exact product details, ingredient list, and the latest store availability information.
2. An Introductory Article on Orange Wine – A companion article on The Scotsman explains what orange wine actually is, how it’s produced, and why it has gained popularity in recent years.
3. A Consumer Review Forum – The article includes a link to a discussion board (for example, a Reddit thread) where consumers share their own tasting notes and price comparisons.
4. Related Wine Articles – Links to other Scotsman pieces on budget wines, the rise of supermarket wine brands, and how the UK market is responding to the demand for “good value” products.

These links help readers go beyond a single taste test and explore the market dynamics that are shaping Lidl’s wine strategy.

6. The Wider Context

Beyond the specific review, the article provides a snapshot of the UK’s wine market. Lidl’s strategy is part of a larger movement among supermarkets to create “in‑store” labels that compete with traditional wine retailers. By offering a simple, affordable product that still delivers on taste, Lidl is positioning itself as a serious player for budget-conscious consumers.

The piece also hints at how the orange wine trend, once a niche for “artisan” or “gourmet” shops, has made its way into mainstream supermarkets. The author notes that while the wine may not rival the finest orange wines from Italy or France, it opens the door for newcomers to explore the style.

7. Take‑Away Points

Final Thoughts

The Scotsman’s review of Lidl’s orange wine serves as a practical guide for anyone interested in dipping their toes into the world of orange wine without breaking the bank. By breaking down the wine’s sensory profile, suggesting realistic pairings, and providing direct links for further exploration, the article offers a comprehensive snapshot of both the product and its place in the broader wine market. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious beginner, the article gives you a clear sense of whether Lidl’s orange wine is a “worth‑try” addition to your glass collection.