Using amphorae in winemaking aligns perfectly with the principles of natural winemaking. Let’s explore how this traditional method contributes to producing high-quality natural wines.
Benefits of Using Amphorae in Winemaking
Amphorae are ancient clay vessels that have been used for thousands of years to store and ferment wine. Here are some of the reasons why their use aligns with natural winemaking principles:
- Neutral Material: Amphorae are made of porous clay, which allows for gentle oxygen exchange. This helps the wine to develop complex flavors and aromas naturally, without the need for additives.
- Temperature Regulation: Clay has insulating properties that help regulate the temperature inside the vessel. This stability is crucial for the fermentation process and contributes to the purity of the final product.
- No Added Flavors: Unlike oak barrels, which can impart flavors to the wine, amphorae are neutral vessels that do not alter the taste of the wine. This is important for natural winemaking, where the focus is on showcasing the true expression of the grapes.
- Breathability: The porous nature of clay allows the wine to breathe, which can enhance its overall character. This breathability also helps to maintain a healthy microbial environment in the vessel, promoting natural fermentation.
Traditional Winemaking Practices
Using amphorae in winemaking is a return to traditional practices that have been passed down through generations. Many natural winemakers believe that these ancient methods result in wines that are more authentic and reflective of their terroir. Here’s how the use of amphorae fits into traditional winemaking:
- Historical Significance: Clay vessels have been used for winemaking since ancient times, particularly in regions like Georgia and Italy. By embracing this tradition, winemakers are paying homage to the roots of winemaking.
- Handcrafted Artistry: Amphorae are often handmade by skilled artisans using traditional techniques. This craftsmanship adds a level of care and attention to the winemaking process, reflecting a commitment to quality and authenticity.
- Sustainable Practices: Clay is a natural and renewable material, making it a sustainable choice for winemaking vessels. By using amphorae, winemakers are reducing their environmental impact and supporting eco-friendly practices.
The Influence of Terroir
One of the key principles of natural winemaking is allowing the wine to express its unique terroir – the combination of soil, climate, and geography that gives grapes their distinctive character. The use of amphorae can enhance this expression by preserving the purity of the wine. Here’s how terroir influences the use of clay vessels:
- Mineral Complexity: Clay has mineral properties that can interact with the wine, adding a subtle layer of complexity to the flavor profile. This interaction can highlight the minerality of the soil where the grapes are grown, enhancing the wine’s sense of place.
- Microbial Diversity: Terroir is not just about soil and climate – it also includes the unique mix of microbes present in a vineyard. Clay vessels can capture and preserve these microbial populations, which can contribute to the fermentation process and the overall character of the wine.
- Aromatic Intensity: By preserving the natural aromas of the wine, clay vessels allow the full range of scents to shine through. This can provide a more nuanced and expressive representation of the terroir, giving consumers a true sense of the vineyard’s essence.
Challenges and Considerations
While the use of amphorae offers many benefits for natural winemaking, there are also challenges and considerations to keep in mind. Here are some factors that winemakers need to consider when using clay vessels:
- Porosity: The porous nature of clay can make it more difficult to clean and sanitize amphorae compared to stainless steel or glass. Proper maintenance and hygiene practices are essential to prevent contamination and ensure wine quality.
- Size and Shape: Amphorae come in a variety of sizes and shapes, each of which can influence the wine differently. Winemakers need to consider how the vessel’s dimensions will affect the fermentation process and the wine’s development.
- Cost and Availability: Handmade clay vessels can be expensive and may have limited availability, especially for winemakers working on a smaller scale. Finding reliable suppliers and investing in quality vessels is essential for consistent results.
Case Studies: Natural Winemakers Using Amphorae
Many natural winemakers around the world have embraced the use of amphorae in their winemaking process. Here are a few examples of producers who are using clay vessels to create exceptional natural wines:
- Frank Cornelissen (Italy): This Sicilian winemaker is known for his minimalist approach to winemaking, using clay vessels to ferment and age his wines. His amphora-aged wines are celebrated for their purity and expression of Etna’s volcanic terroir.
- Château Maris (France): Located in the Languedoc region, Château Maris produces biodynamic wines in clay vessels called “amphorae jars.” These vessels help the wines to develop complex aromas and flavors while maintaining their natural freshness.
- Radikon (Italy): The Radikon family in Friuli has been making natural wines in clay vessels for over 35 years. Their extended skin-contact wines are fermented and aged in amphorae, resulting in wines with intense flavors and a distinct sense of place.