The Importance of Skins in Winemaking

The Importance of Skins in Winemaking

In the vast universe of oenology, there is a crucial element that often goes unnoticed but which holds much of the character and essence of our wines: the skins. These skins, which surround and protect the pulp of the grape, play a fundamental role in the production of red wines, but their importance goes beyond tradition, venturing into the frontiers of innovation with the creation of the trendy wines known as orange wines, wines that are still whites made as if they were reds, with a prolonged period of contact between the must and their skins.

Since time immemorial, the skins have been revered by oenologists and winemakers as the custodians of the grape’s essence. In red winemaking, they play a crucial role during maceration and fermentation, releasing a wealth of compounds that give the wine its characteristic colour, aroma and structure. It is in the intimate contact between the pulp and the skins that the tannins, pigments and other components that give the wine its complexity and distinctive character develop.

However, in recent years, we have witnessed an oenological revolution that defies established conventions, giving rise to the creation of so-called white wines in contact with their skins, or orange wines. These wines, made by a process involving the maceration of the skins together with the must for a prolonged period, represent a return to ancestral techniques and a redefinition of the limits of winemaking.

What distinguishes orange wines is their astonishing complexity and character, which derive largely from prolonged contact with the skins. Through this process, the white wines acquire a wealth of nuances ranging from golden to amber tones, along with a subtle tannic structure and an aromatic depth that surprises even the most experienced. In addition, orange wines offer remarkable longevity, challenging the conventional notion that white wines are exclusively for immediate consumption.

At Bodegas Luzón, we honour tradition while embracing innovation, and the skins are an integral part of our winemaking philosophy. From the careful selection of the grapes to the delicate maceration and fermentation process, every step of our winemaking is imbued with respect for this fundamental element that helps us create our red wines that reflect the richness of our territory.

Ultimately, the skins remind us that the soul of the wine lies in the most intimate details of its production. They are silent witnesses to the passage of time and guardians of the essence of the grape, transmitting its unique character with every sip. At Bodegas Luzón, we celebrate the magic of the skins and invite you to discover their transforming power in every bottle we share with the world.