Barrel

/BARE-ul/

Wooden container used for fermenting and aging wine.

Full Definition

Barrels are typically made from oak and used to ferment and/or age wine. A standard Bordeaux barrique holds 225 liters; a Burgundy piece holds 228 liters. New barrels contribute oak flavors (vanilla, spice, toast) and allow slow oxygen exchange. Older barrels are more neutral, used for texture without added flavor.

Related Terms

barrique oak cooperage

See Also

toast new oak french oak

Baroque Back to Glossary Barrel Fermented

More terms starting with B

Balance

Harmony between wine components: fruit, acid, tannin, alcohol.

Barrique

A 225-liter oak barrel, the Bordeaux standard.

Batonnage

Stirring wine on its lees to add texture and complexity.

Biodynamic

Holistic farming approach following Rudolf Steiner's principles.

Bite

A sharp, acidic sensation in wine.

Blanc de Blancs

White wine made exclusively from white grapes, typically Chardonnay.