Chacewater Winery Orange Muscat (Semi-Sweet) 2022
Chacewater Winery Orange Muscat (Semi-Sweet) 2022
Lake County, California
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Tasting Notes
Bright, juicy, and downright inviting, this Orange Muscat bursts with vibrant aromas of fresh orange blossom, citrus peel, and a hint of tropical fruit. On the palate, it’s definitely on the sweeter side—but don’t mistake it for a dessert wine. Thanks to its moderate alcohol level, it strikes a perfect balance, offering sweetness without feeling heavy or overly rich.
Just to be clear, this isn’t an “orange” wine (which is made from white grapes with extended skin contact). Instead, it’s made from the Orange Muscat grape, known for its intensely aromatic, floral, and fruity character.
Light, lively, and refreshing, it’s a perfect chilled sipper or a delicious pairing for spicy dishes, fresh fruit, or light desserts that appreciate a touch of sweetness without going overboard. -
Story
Tucked away in the beautiful hills of Lake County, Chacewater Winery & Olive Mill is the kind of family-run gem that makes you want to slow down and savor the moment. Founded in 2008, this spot blends old-world charm with fresh California vibes — all while crafting seriously delicious wines and olive oils.
What’s cool? The whole operation is organic, certified by California Certified Organic Farmers, so you know they’re all about keeping things natural and pure. Plus, the name “Chacewater” is a nod to the founders’ Cornish roots, reminding us that great things come from hard work and a bit of adventure.
At Chacewater, they focus on small-batch wines that really show off the unique flavors of Lake County — with minimal fuss in the cellar so the grapes get to shine. Whether you’re tasting their bright Sauvignon Blanc or this lovely Orange Muscat, you can expect wines that are fresh, balanced, and full of personality.
And if you ever visit, don’t miss their olive oil tastings — it’s a whole experience. They even offer a cozy farmhouse stay so you can soak in the full wine country vibe.
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Somm Notes
Muscat Fleur d’Orange, often called Orange Muscat, is a fragrant and visually striking member of the Muscat family. Unlike the more common Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, this variety is prized for its delicate orange-hued skins and intensely floral, citrus-driven aromatics.
Its viticultural roots trace back to Mediterranean regions, where growers have long appreciated its ability to deliver both aromatic complexity and natural sweetness. The grape thrives in warm climates with well-drained soils — which makes Lake County’s volcanic soils an ideal home. The mineral-rich, porous volcanic earth provides excellent drainage and subtle minerality, while the cooler nights at higher elevations help preserve the grape’s bright acidity and vibrant aromatics.
This balance of sun, soil, and cool air allows Muscat Fleur d’Orange to develop luscious flavors of orange blossom, ripe citrus, and tropical fruits without becoming cloyingly sweet or heavy. The acidity here is moderate — bright enough to keep the wine fresh and lively but gentler than sharper varieties like Riesling.
Thanks to this acidity level and balanced sweetness, the 2022 Chacewater Orange Muscat pairs beautifully with spicy Asian dishes, fresh salads with citrus vinaigrettes, fruit-forward desserts such as peach cobbler or honey-glazed pastries, and creamy cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese. These pairings complement the wine’s aromatic profile while matching its gentle freshness and moderate acidity.
Every wine has a place and time, and though sweet(er) wines don't generally make it to my everyday wine lineup, there's nothing quite like experiencing a fruit tart with a little bit of moscato, or the juxtaposition of a sweet wine and a funky blue cheese, or having something to soothe the heat of something spicy with tropical sweetness. This wine is also light enough for sweet wine drinkers to have a actualy 5 or 6 oz pour and for wine drinkers who tend to prefer something drier to have a dessert pour (1.5 - 2 oz). -
Region
Lake County is one of California’s rising stars in the wine world — and for good reason. Located just north of Napa, it offers a unique combination of volcanic soils, higher elevation vineyards, and a climate that’s both sunny and cool.
The volcanic soils here are packed with minerals that add structure and complexity to the grapes, whether white or red. Whites benefit from the crisp acidity and fresh aromatics that develop thanks to the cool mountain nights, while reds gain depth, bold flavors, and firm tannins from the nutrient-rich earth and longer growing season.
Because of the elevation, vineyards enjoy more intense sunlight during the day and refreshing coolness at night. This temperature swing helps grapes maintain balance — developing ripe, concentrated flavors without losing their freshness.
So, whether it’s a vibrant white or a rich, powerful red, wines from Lake County carry a signature brightness and mineral-driven complexity that reflect the region’s special terroir.