Wine Barrels

There are different types of oak used in wine barrels, with French and American oak being the most common. French oak is often prized for its tight grain, which imparts more subtle, elegant flavors, while American oak tends to provide more pronounced, bolder notes. The size of the barrel and the length of aging also influence the wine's final profile; smaller barrels have a higher surface area relative to volume, which can lead to more intense wood influence.

Wine barrels are typically toasted or charred on the inside before use, which enhances the flavor contributions from the oak. Depending on the level of toasting, the wine can pick up different characteristics, such as smoky, caramel, or nutty notes. The use of wine barrels is a traditional practice in winemaking that continues to be valued for the depth and nuance it adds to the finished product.