Amphora Elegance: Crafting Sauvignon Blanc with Ancient Inspiration
Published on May 20, 2024

Elle Minor’s Stunning Sauvignon Blanc in Amphorae: A Tribute to Sicily
Elle Minor, charged with creating a remarkable Sauvignon Blanc in amphorae, has achieved a masterpiece that blends tradition and innovation. Inspired by the breathtaking beauty of Sicily, this wine encapsulates the rugged coastlines, rolling vineyards, and ancient ruins that define the island’s unique charm.
Our journey began in Noto, Sicily, where the luxurious eco resort, Country House Villadorata, stole our hearts. Surrounded by olive groves, citrus trees, and vineyards, this haven of elegance set the tone for our Sicilian adventure. A visit to the renowned COS Winery in Vittoria introduced us to Sicily’s volcanic soils and ancient winemaking traditions using amphorae. Standing in their underground cavern, surrounded by these clay vessels, we knew we had to bring this style home.
Back in California, Elle, our daughter and assistant winemaker, took the reins. Carefully selecting the finest Sauvignon Blanc grapes from the Denmark Vineyard—a family-owned estate committed to regenerative farming—Elle embraced the natural beauty of Sonoma’s terroir. Hand-picked at peak ripeness, the grapes were set for a journey of innovation and tradition.
The Art of Amphorae Winemaking
Using amphorae crafted from the clay of the Mokelumne Gap and Sacramento Delta, Elle guided the wine through a meticulous process. Amphorae’s neutral aging vessel allows the fruit’s pure expression to shine, while their egg shape creates a natural vortex during fermentation. This movement, combined with stable temperatures, enhances the wine’s complexity and balance without additional intervention.
To perfect this vintage, a combination of amphorae and stainless steel fermentation was employed, with 100% of the wine undergoing malolactic fermentation. This process softened the wine and gave it an elegant, full-bodied finish—a hallmark of Elle’s talent and dedication.
A Love Letter to Sicily
Our Sean Minor Invited Series Sauvignon Blanc is more than a wine; it’s a tribute to Sicily’s timeless beauty and winemaking heritage. Each sip carries the essence of sun-soaked days, cool Mediterranean nights, and the innovative spirit that inspired us. From Marzamemi’s Piazza Regina Margherita to the clay vessels of COS Winery, this wine is a sensory journey back to Sicily’s soul.
Open a bottle and let your imagination wander to rolling vineyards, ancient ruins, and the pure joy of discovery. Our Sean Minor Invited Series Sauvignon Blanc in amphorae is a testament to the magic of inspiration and the art of crafting wines that tell a story. So, next time you crack open a bottle of our Sauvignon Blanc, let yourself dream a little. Who knows where it might take you.


