Pyramid Valley North Canterbury 'On Skins' Orange 2024

Pyramid Valley North Canterbury 'On Skins' Orange is a vivid, savoury take on skin-contact wine, bringing together apricot, orange rind, exotic spice and floral notes with a dry palate and gently grippy tannins. Pyramid Valley has been exploring this style since the mid-2000s, and the 2024 keeps that adventurous streak firmly intact. There is plenty of texture here, but also freshness and a pleasantly bitter, almost Negroni-like edge that keeps things lively. A cracking choice for orange-wine fans, especially alongside aromatic Asian dishes, spiced vegetables, charcuterie, or a simple plate of cheese and olives.

What the winery says:

The 2024 is drawn from four sustainably farmed vineyards and was made without artificial chemicals or fertilisers in the vineyard. The fruit was primarily whole-bunch fermented for 12 - 24 days in open-top fermenters, with a small amount of Blanc de Noir pressings added during fermentation. It then spent six months in a mix of concrete Tulipes, clay amphora and old barrels without added SO2 before bottling unfined and unfiltered. Slightly hazy and orange-hued, it shows lifted spice and floral aromas, orange rind and warming spice on the palate, with soft, fine tannins and a savoury finish.

What the experts say:

Cameron Douglas MS, 93 Points, Excellent (2024 Vintage)
“Classic appearance showing an unfiltered deep apricot and orange hued appearance. This leads to a bouquet of stone fruits and jam, apricots and peaches, then kombucha and fruit tea reminders. On the palate a dry wine with an immediate rush of texture and flavours that mirror the bouquet. Acidity and tannins deliver a frame of texture and mouthfeel to contrast the fruit. Lengthy and well made. I would drink two glasses of this wine - easy, yes it’s very good. Best from day of purchase through 2029.”

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 95/100 (2023 Vintage)
“Complex and engaging, the captivating bouquet shows orange peel, apricot, savoury pastry and dried flower aromas.”

Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews, 94/100 (2023 Vintage)
“A ripe phenolic grip accompanied by balanced acidity, driving a textural length, unfolding spices, citrus peels and earthy layers.”