There’s something undeniably captivating about wines crafted in ancient vessels. They carry the whispers of history, the patience of nature, and the creativity of modern winemakers. At Six Eighty Cellars, we’re always looking to push boundaries while staying true to the purest expression of the grape. That’s why we embrace amphora aging—an age-old method that’s making a serious comeback.
Before we dive in, let’s clear something up. When we say “amphora,” we’re referring to a broader category of earthenware vessels—including terracotta, clay, concrete, and cocciopesto. While traditional amphorae are a key part of this mix, winemakers today use a variety of clay-based aging techniques. Now that we’ve got that covered, let’s talk about why this ancient method is so special—especially here in the Finger Lakes at Six Eighty Cellars.
Amphora aging refers to fermenting and maturing wine in clay-based vessels rather than oak or stainless steel. These porous vessels allow just enough oxygen to develop complexity without overpowering the wine’s natural character.
Before oak barrels took over, winemakers were aging wine in clay. This technique originated in Georgia (the country, not the state) with their iconic qvevri, which remain buried underground for optimal temperature control. The practice spread to Greece, Rome, and beyond—and now, it’s found a home in modern wineries across the world, including here in the Finger Lakes.
We could talk about this all day, but here’s the quick version:
| Feature | Amphora Aging | Oak Barrel Aging |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Influence | Neutral, lets the grape shine | Adds vanilla, spice, toast |
| Oxygen Exposure | Slow, natural micro-oxygenation | Controlled, varies by toast level |
| Texture | Bright, mineral-driven, pure | Richer, rounder, structured |
| Lifespan | Lasts centuries | Needs replacing every few years |
| Environmental Impact | Low, no tree harvesting | High, requires new barrels regularly |
Some grape varieties thrive in these vessels. Here are a few favorites:
A few wineries leading the charge:
Looking to sip on something that blends ancient tradition with modern craft? You’re in luck:
At Six Eighty Cellars, we’re all about experimenting with technique while staying true to the essence of the grape. Whether you’re a seasoned amphora enthusiast or just curious about something new, we’ve got a bottle waiting for you. Swing by our Cayuga Lake winery in the Finger Lakes, New York, or visit our shop to taste the future of ancient winemaking.
Book a tasting here. Or just show up—we’ll be here, pouring something delicious.
