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This Central Park lakeside eatery is hosting an exclusive wine dinner
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Published in Food and Wine on Monday, August 11th 2025 at 18:40 GMT by Time Out🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
The iconic NYC institution is bringing orange wines to the table.
Discovering the Allure of Orange Wine: A Special Dinner Event at Central Park's Loeb Boathouse
In the heart of New York City's iconic Central Park, where the serenity of nature meets the buzz of urban life, the Loeb Boathouse stands as a timeless venue for memorable dining experiences. This summer, it's hosting an extraordinary event that's capturing the attention of wine enthusiasts and foodies alike: the Orange Wine Dinner. Organized as a one-night-only affair, this curated evening promises to blend the rustic elegance of the Boathouse's lakeside setting with the intriguing world of orange wines, offering guests a unique opportunity to explore a lesser-known category of vino that's been gaining traction in the city's vibrant culinary scene.
Orange wine, often misunderstood or overlooked, isn't made from oranges at all. Instead, it's a style of white wine produced using ancient techniques where white grape skins are left in contact with the juice during fermentation, much like in red wine production. This process imparts a distinctive amber or orange hue, along with complex flavors that can range from nutty and tannic to floral and fruity. Originating from regions like Georgia (the country, not the state) and Slovenia, orange wines have roots dating back thousands of years, but they've recently surged in popularity among sommeliers and adventurous drinkers in New York. The dinner at the Boathouse aims to demystify this category, showcasing how these wines pair beautifully with seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine.
The event is set against the picturesque backdrop of the Boathouse, a beloved landmark since 1954. Perched on the edge of The Lake, with views of rowboats gliding by and the Manhattan skyline peeking through the trees, the venue evokes a sense of escapism right in the middle of the city. Diners can expect an intimate atmosphere, with tables arranged to maximize the scenic vistas, perhaps under the soft glow of evening lights as the sun sets over the park. It's the perfect setting for an event that celebrates natural, low-intervention winemaking, aligning with the Boathouse's commitment to fresh, sustainable ingredients.
At the helm of this dinner is a collaboration between the Boathouse's culinary team and expert sommeliers specializing in natural wines. The menu is designed as a multi-course feast, each dish thoughtfully paired with a selection of orange wines from around the globe. Starting with appetizers, guests might begin with a light and refreshing course like chilled seafood crudo—perhaps featuring fresh oysters or scallops sourced from local waters—paired with a crisp, skin-contact Sauvignon Blanc from Friuli, Italy. This wine's subtle herbal notes and bright acidity would complement the briny flavors of the seafood, introducing diners to the vibrant side of orange wines.
Moving into the heartier portions, the menu could include a salad of heirloom tomatoes, burrata, and basil, dressed with a balsamic reduction, matched with a Georgian Rkatsiteli orange wine. Known for its bold tannins and oxidative character, this wine adds depth to the dish's creamy and tangy elements, evoking the ancient amphora-aging methods used in its production. For the main course, envision a roasted duck breast with seasonal vegetables and a herb-infused jus, paired with a Slovenian Ribolla Gialla. This wine's structured body and hints of dried fruit would elevate the savory richness of the duck, demonstrating how orange wines can stand up to robust proteins in ways traditional whites might not.
Dessert rounds out the experience with something indulgent yet balanced, such as a poached pear tart with almond cream, accompanied by a sweeter orange wine variant, like a late-harvest blend from Austria. The wine's honeyed undertones and slight bitterness would provide a harmonious finish, leaving a lingering impression of the evening's theme. Throughout the dinner, sommeliers will be on hand to guide guests through tastings, sharing stories about the winemakers, the regions, and the sustainable practices behind each bottle. This educational component adds an enriching layer, making the event appealing not just to connoisseurs but also to newcomers curious about natural wines.
What makes this dinner particularly special is its timing and exclusivity. Scheduled for a warm evening in late summer—let's say August 15th, though exact dates should be confirmed via the Time Out listing—the event taps into the seasonal bounty of New York's farms and markets. Priced at around $150 per person (including wine pairings, tax, and gratuity), it's positioned as a premium yet accessible experience, with limited seating to ensure an intimate vibe. Reservations are essential, and the Boathouse's reputation for impeccable service means attendees can anticipate a seamless night from start to finish.
Beyond the food and wine, the Orange Wine Dinner reflects broader trends in New York's dining landscape. The city has seen a boom in natural wine bars and events, from spots like Wildair in the Lower East Side to pop-ups in Brooklyn. Orange wines, with their funky profiles and eco-friendly ethos, fit perfectly into this movement, appealing to a generation of diners who prioritize authenticity and minimal intervention. At the Boathouse, this event bridges the gap between Central Park's classic charm and modern gastronomic innovation, inviting locals and visitors to step away from the ordinary and into a world of amber-hued discovery.
For those planning a visit, arriving early allows time to stroll the park or rent a rowboat, enhancing the overall experience. The Boathouse itself offers a full bar and additional dining options, but this special dinner elevates it to a must-attend for anyone passionate about wine and cuisine. In a city teeming with events, the Orange Wine Dinner stands out as a thoughtful celebration of flavor, history, and the simple joy of sharing a meal in one of New York's most enchanting spots. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or just dipping your toes into the world of skin-contact wines, this evening promises to be both enlightening and delicious, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the orange spectrum of the wine world. (Word count: 842)
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[ https://www.timeout.com/newyork/restaurants/orange-wine-dinner-at-central-park-boathouse ]