Our Amphora Range
Symphony Hill Wines is so excited to have three terra cotta amphorae in our winemaking inventory, which we use to produce our finest wines: the amphora range. Our amphorae were handmade in Tuscany by artisan Giovanni Salvianti. Vinification using terra cotta vessels is the most ancient form of winemaking, dating back as far as 7000 BC. The amphorae are not wax lined, so the wine is in constant contact with the clay surface, which is porous and antimicrobial. The wine breathes as it ages, just like a barrel, but without any oak influence. This micro-oxygenation causes the wine to soften as it matures and develops. As the wine becomes more silky and supple, the varietal’s flavours and aromas are drawn out and amplified.
Unlike maturation through oak barrels, the terra cotta preserves the purity of the grape’s unique character and the expression of its terroir. Terra cotta naturally insulates and regulates temperature with ease, providing a stable and cool environment for the wine to evolve. The shape of the amphorae facilitates the suspension and free movement of the wine, allowing for the development of wines with greater complexity.
Currently, we have the 2020 Nero d’Avola and the 2021 Shiraz on for tasting at our cellar door in Ballandean. Amphora range tastings are a free perk for our wine club members when they return to our cellar door to catch up. We sell our amphora range wines at the cellar door and online. Our numbered bottles are sold in beautiful display boxes and come with singed thankyou letters, Xennox diamonds gift vouchers and, for non-members, a complimentary season of wine club membership. Amphora range wines purchased from our web store are generally sent via a tracked Australia Post signature delivery, but we are more than happy to try and accommodate customer’s specific needs. We will check up with amphora customers to ensure the wine arrived safe and sound.
The amphora range are special wines that encapsulate the adventure and innovation of Symphony Hill Wines and Queensland winemaking. If you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us on 07 4684 1388 or info@symphonyhill.com.au, we love talking to people about our wines and hearing feedback!