What Is Orange Wine? Discover It in the Heart of Languedoc at Château de Paraza
What Is Orange Wine? Discover It in the Heart of Languedoc at Château de Paraza
If you're curious about orange wine, there's no better introduction than Été Indien — a radiant, textured bottle made from the Gewürztraminer grape by the family-run Château de Paraza in Minervois, Southern France. This isn't your typical "funky" orange. It's beautifully clear, rich in flavour, and the perfect starting point for anyone wondering what orange wine really is.
Wait—What Exactly Is Orange Wine?
Despite the name, orange wine isn’t made with oranges. It’s a white wine made like a red — meaning the juice is fermented with the grape skins. That contact gives the wine:
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An amber or copper hue
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More texture and structure
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Flavours of dried fruit, spice, herbs, and floral notes
When made with aromatic white grapes like Gewürztraminer, the result is a beautifully layered, expressive wine with fragrance, finesse, and a little wild charm.
Été Indien wears this style beautifully — floral, vibrant, and silky, with just enough texture to keep you intrigued.
A Wine (and Place) Worth Travelling For
We visited Château de Paraza ourselves — and trust us, this place is a dream. Think: a 17th-century château perched above the Canal du Midi, where the views stretch to the Pyrenees and breakfast includes figs from the garden.
The rooms feel like a cross between a countryside retreat and a boutique design hotel
There's a poolside terrace with chilled glasses always at the ready
Wine tastings take place in vaulted cellars beneath the estate
The estate is perched above the Canal du Midi, with views that stretch to the Pyrenees. And whether you're tasting in the vaulted cellar, lounging by the pool, or exploring nearby Gruissan Plage or Collioure, you’re surrounded by the soul of the Languedoc.
Sustainable Winemaking with Heritage at Heart
Since 2005, the Danglas family have poured their energy into restoring this 18th-century estate. From their eco-certified vineyards (High Environmental Value, Level 3) to the impressive barrel room where Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre age slowly in oak, this is a winery that blends heritage with sustainability. And it shows in every glass.
Their wine tastings are led by knowledgeable, passionate staff. Whether you opt for the classic tasting or go all-in on the premium experience, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of this rich, historic region.
Planning a Trip? Or Just Want to Dream for a While…
Not heading to France just yet? We’ve put together a free digital map of our favourite natural wine bars, boutique hotels, and slow-travel gems across the Languedoc-Roussillon. It includes:
-Hidden wine bars in Narbonne, Perpignan & Montpellier
-Boutique stays and château escapes (like Paraza!)
-The best beach spots, restaurants & food markets
Download the Taste Union Languedoc Map here
Fancy a Taste? Our Orange Wine Trio Has Landed
You can try Été Indien alongside two other bold, skin-contact beauties in our limited-edition Orange Wine Trio — the perfect intro to natural orange wine.
-Use code PEELTHELOVE for £10 off
-UK delivery only
-Limited stock available
Want to Know More About Orange Wine?
We’ve written a full guide to what orange wine is, why it’s trending, and the 4 bottles we can’t stop pouring — including Château de Paraza’s Été Indien.