Amber Wine: Understanding the Ancient Art of Orange Wine Making

Often called orange wine but more correctly termed amber wine, this historical winemaking style is experiencing a remarkable revival in Australia and worldwide. Despite its recent popularity, amber wine represents one of the oldest winemaking traditions, dating back thousands of years to the Caucasus region, particularly Georgia.

What Is Amber Wine?

Amber wine is a white wine made like a red wine - white grape varieties are fermented with skins, seeds, and sometimes stems (called maceration). This extended contact with grape solids creates distinctive characteristics:

• Deep amber to orange colour
• Tannic structure unusual in white wines
• Complex flavour profiles
• Higher phenolic content
• Unique textural elements

Historical Origins

Georgian Roots

• 8,000-year-old tradition
• Originally made in qvevri (clay amphora)
• Part of Georgia's cultural heritage
• Traditional winemaking methods preserved through generations

Traditional Production

• Qvevri buried underground
• Natural temperature control
• Indigenous yeast fermentation
• Extended maceration periods

Modern Production Methods

Today's amber wines are made through various approaches:

Traditional Method

• Clay amphora or qvevri
• Natural fermentation
• Minimal intervention
• Extended skin contact (often 6+ months)

Contemporary Approach

• Stainless steel tanks
• Temperature control
• Shorter maceration periods
• Various vessel types

Production Process

1. Grape Selection
   • Aromatic white varieties are preferred
   • Common varieties include:
     • Ribolla Gialla
     • Pinot Grigio
     • Sauvignon Blanc
     • Chardonnay
     • Vermentino
2. Crushing and Fermentation
   • Grapes crushed with skins and seeds
   • Natural or cultured yeast
   • Temperature typically warmer than white wine fermentation
   • Extended skin contact from days to months
3. Maceration
   • Critical phase determining style
   • Length varies dramatically:
     • Brief (few days): lighter styles
     • Medium (weeks): balanced styles
     • Extended (months): intense styles
4. Pressing and Ageing
   • Gentle pressing after maceration
   • Various ageing vessels:
     • Amphora
     • Oak barrels
     • Stainless steel
     • Concrete eggs

Characteristics

Appearance

• Colour range from pale gold to deep amber
• Often cloudy or unfiltered
• Visual depth and intensity

Aroma

• Dried fruits
• Orange peel
• Tea leaves
• Nuts
• Honey
• Spices
• Sometimes volatile acidity

Palate

• Tannic structure
• High phenolic content
• Often dry
• Complex texture
• Extended finish
• Variable acidity

Australian Amber Wines

The Australian wine industry has embraced amber wines:

Growing Regions

• Adelaide Hills
• McLaren Vale
• Margaret River
• Tasmania

Local Innovations

• Using Australian varieties
• Experimenting with native yeasts
• Adapting to local conditions
• Creating unique styles

Food Pairing

Amber wines offer unique pairing opportunities:

Complementary Foods

• Strong cheeses
• Cured meats
• Spiced dishes
• Middle Eastern cuisine
• Complex vegetarian dishes
• Game meats

Serving Suggestions

• Serve at 12-14°C
• Allow to breathe
• Use larger glasses
• Decant if desired

Modern Revival

The resurgence of amber wines reflects several trends:

Natural Wine Movement

• Minimal intervention
• Traditional methods
• Organic practices
• Biodynamic farming

Consumer Interest

• Unique flavour profiles
• Historical connection
• Artisanal production
• Food-friendly nature

Storage and Ageing

Amber wines can age differently from conventional whites:

Storage Conditions

• Cool, stable temperature
• Protection from light
• Proper humidity
• Minimal vibration

Ageing Potential

• Often age well
• Complex development
• Tannin structure helps preservation
• Can improve for years

Visit Our Cellar Door

At McLaren Vale Cellars, we showcase amber wines that demonstrate this ancient technique's potential in modern Australian winemaking. Our knowledgeable staff can guide you through the unique characteristics and production methods of these fascinating wines.

Whether you're new to amber wines or a seasoned enthusiast, understanding their history and production helps appreciate their distinctive character. These wines represent both an ancient tradition and modern innovation in winemaking.

Production Tips

For those interested in amber winemaking:

Key Considerations

• Grape selection crucial
• Temperature control important
• Cleanliness essential
• Monitoring during maceration
• Oxygen management
• Vessel selection

Common Challenges

• Oxidation control
• Volatile acidity management
• Tannin balance
• Clarity decisions
• Stability concerns

Remember, amber wine production requires patience and attention to detail, but the results can be extraordinarily rewarding. The style offers winemakers a chance to create unique wines that connect ancient traditions with contemporary tastes.