Barrels whilst cooking Beef cheeks in Barbera

One of the most fundamental elements in wine production is the vessel in which the wine is aged. While there are many ways to mature wine, barrels have been the traditional choice for centuries. The material, origin, and specific characteristics of the barrel play a crucial role in shaping the final flavour profile of the wine, adding complexity, texture, and aroma.

At Tenuta Il Finale, the use of barrels for aging wine is a deliberate and thoughtful process. Barrels are traditionally made from oak, a wood that is prized for its ability to allow wine to breathe while imparting distinct flavours. The two main types of oak used are French oak and American oak, each with its own set of characteristics. French oak tends to have a fine, tight grain and imparts more subtle, elegant flavours such as vanilla, spice, and toasted almonds. On the other hand, American oak has a looser grain, leading to a bolder influence with stronger flavours of vanilla, coconut, and sometimes even caramel.

The origin of the oak is just as important as the type. Oak trees grown in different regions of the world have distinct qualities due to variations in climate, soil, and forest management practices. For instance, French oak from forests in the Allier or Vosges regions is known for its delicate influence, while oak from regions like Missouri or Minnesota in the United States can contribute a more pronounced, richer flavours.

Choosing one barrel over another is also a matter of style and the desired outcome for the wine. For example, some winemakers may opt for a combination of new and used barrels to strike the right balance between the wine’s exposure to the wood and the retention of fresh, fruity flavours.

At Tenuta Il Finale, barrels are not only integral to the aging process but also to the creation of wines that express the unique terroir of the region. The careful selection of oak, along with traditional aging methods, contributes to the development of wines that are complex, smooth, and harmonious—capturing the essence of the land and the winemaker’s vision.

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