🍷Wine of the Month – July
2024 Weathercraft Amphora Blanco
Weathercraft
We first met Raquel when she joined us on The Wined Up Podcast two years ago. Her philosophy has stayed with us ever since. Inspired by her Spanish heritage, she believes great wines begin with the right varieties for the right place. That conviction has led Weathercraft to champion grapes such as Albariño, chosen for their ability to thrive in Australia's evolving climate. Guided by minimal intervention, every wine is crafted to express the vineyard, the season and the variety. It is a philosophy built on authenticity, curiosity and respect for nature.
The Wine
The 2024 Amphora Blanco is a reflection of Weathercraft's thoughtful approach to winemaking. Raquel combines Albariño and Chardonnay to create a wine that balances freshness with texture. Albariño brings vibrant citrus, floral aromatics and natural salinity, while Chardonnay adds depth, structure and a creamy mid-palate. Fermentation and maturation in clay amphora preserve the purity of the fruit while adding subtle complexity and texture. The result is a distinctive cool-climate white that feels both familiar and unexpected. Every element works in harmony, allowing the blend to speak with clarity, balance and sense of place.
Winemaker's Notes
Vinified in clay to enhance complexity, this medium-bodied white blend of Albariño and Chardonnay presents notes of fresh ginger, lime zest, mezcal and saline. Crafted in amphora, it draws on winemaker Raquel Jones’ Spanish heritage and showcases a savoury, textured palate.
Critics' Verdict
95 Points – Katrina Butler, Halliday Wine Companion
“60/40% albariño/chardonnay. Whole bunch, wild fermented in amphora, where it stayed for 10 months prior to bottling. Scents of freshly peeled ginger, fenugreek and white stone fruit with lime zest sewn in. It's textural and saline with enduring length. The thought of drinking it cold evokes kicking off your summer sandals, sitting outside on a balmy night under festoon lighting and worrying only about which salty snacks to pair it with.”
Why It Was Our Pick of the Month
What stood out most was the wine's balance. The Albariño brings vibrant citrus and freshness, while the Chardonnay adds texture without overshadowing the fruit. Fermentation in clay amphora introduces another layer of complexity, creating a wine that evolves with every sip. It is both refreshing and thought-provoking, making it equally suited to casual enjoyment or a longer meal. This is the kind of bottle that rewards slowing down, sharing with friends and discovering something new in the glass.
Food Pairing + Occasion
The Amphora Blanco is a natural match for fresh seafood. Pairs beautifully with Spanish-inspired dishes such as grilled octopus, seafood paella. Whether shared over a long lunch or poured at an intimate dinner, this is a wine made for conversation and good company.
