Barrel: Difference between revisions
Created page with "'''Barrel''' in winemaking refers to a wooden vessel, traditionally made of oak, used for the storage, fermentation, and maturation of wine. Barrels have played a central role in the development of wine styles across Europe and beyond, shaping not only the flavour but also the cultural identity of wine regions.<ref>Robinson (ed.), ''The Oxford Companion to Wine'', 2015.</ref> While originally valued for their practicality in transport, barrels tod..." |
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Barrels may be used at two main stages: | Barrels may be used at two main stages: | ||
* | * '''Fermentation''': particularly in premium [[white wine]] production, such as [[Chardonnay]], where fermentation in barrel adds texture and integrates oak flavours. | ||
* | * '''Maturation''': the more common use, where wine is aged for months or years to encourage gradual development. | ||
The age of the barrel is critical. New barrels impart stronger oak character, while older barrels act mainly as neutral vessels, influencing wine through oxygen exchange rather than flavour. Winemakers therefore manage barrel regimes carefully, balancing new and used wood according to style. | The age of the barrel is critical. New barrels impart stronger oak character, while older barrels act mainly as neutral vessels, influencing wine through oxygen exchange rather than flavour. Winemakers therefore manage barrel regimes carefully, balancing new and used wood according to style. | ||