“Orange Wine”

A cocktail that takes its cues from orange wine.

orange wine cocktail recipe illustration john perry yates

This cocktail takes its cues from the Futurist Mixology movement, an offshoot of the Italian Futurist art movement, which was often less about ingredients and more about expectations—or rather, the unexpected. In this case, the surprising element is the drink’s ability to masquerade as a style of white wine often referred to as “orange,” thanks to its slight oxidation and time spent macerating on the skins. The mixture of the slightly bitter Contratto Bianco, oxidized Carpano Antica and savory Strega, as well as a dash of tangerine juice for acidity, mimic the flavor and color of orange wine, while prosecco adds freshness.

Ingredients

Serving: 1

  • 1 ounce Contratto Bianco
  • 1 ounce Contratto Bianco
  • 1/2 ounce Strega
  • 1/2 ounce Strega
  • 1/4 ounce Carpano Antica
  • 1/4 ounce Carpano Antica
  • 3/4 ounce tangerine juice
  • 3/4 ounce tangerine juice
  • 3 ounces prosecco
  • 3 ounces prosecco

Garnish: Aperol-soaked grapes

Directions
  1. In a wine glass filled with ice, add all ingredients except prosecco and stir gently.
  2. Top with prosecco, and stir.
  3. Garnish with three Aperol-soaked white grapes (see Editor's Note) arranged on a skewer.
Editor's Note

To make Aperol-soaked grapes, combine 1 pound of white grapes, 1 cup of Aperol and 1/2 cup water to a sauce pan. Bring to a slow boil and reduce to low and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat, add 1 cup of Cointreau and let cool. When cool to the touch, add grapes and liquid to jar and cover. Refrigerate for up to 1 week.