Orange wine & pizza: why Cirelli La Collina Biologica is the ideal pairing

What Exactly Is Orange Wine?

Despite the name, orange wine isn’t made from oranges. It’s a white wine made using red-wine techniques: the juice is left in contact with the grape skins, giving it that amber-gold colour and a gentle tannic structure. This ancient style of winemaking is enjoying a huge comeback because it produces wines that are complex, aromatic, and full of texture – sitting somewhere between a crisp white and a light red.

Meet Cirelli La Collina Biologica

From the rolling hills of Abruzzo in Southern Italy, Cirelli’s La Collina Biologica Orange is crafted from 100% Trebbiano grapes, grown organically. By allowing the skins to stay in contact with the juice for around three weeks, the wine develops an inviting mix of citrus peel, stone fruit, floral notes, and gentle spice. On the palate, it’s fresh yet structured, with a subtle grip that makes each sip linger beautifully.

Why Orange Wine Loves Franco Manca Pizza

Pizza is all about balance – bright tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, our signature sourdough with a touch of char, and endless topping options. Cirelli’s orange wine slots in perfectly because:

• Refreshing acidity cuts through the richness of cheese and oil

• Tannic texture from the skin contact matches the chewiness of the crust

• Herbal and citrus flavours naturally complement tomato, basil, mushrooms, and even cured meat

The Takeaway

If you’re looking to elevate your pizza night at Franco Manca, an organic Italian orange wine like Cirelli La Collina Biologica is a game-changer. With its depth, vibrancy, and food-friendly character, it proves that pizza deserves more than just beer or cola on the table.

Franco’s Buchetta Del Vino

To celebrate the launch of our new orange wine we popped up in London Bridge with Franco’s Buchetta Del Vino – Franco’s Wine Window.

Steeped in Italian tradition, for one day only, customers and passers by were invited to “ring for vino” and a mysterious hand appeared through the window with a perfectly chilled glass of our crisp orange wine.

One small window, one big splash for our new orange wine.