Glossary

Barrique

/bah-REEK/

A 225-liter oak barrel, the Bordeaux standard.

Full Definition

The barrique is a 225-liter (59-gallon) oak barrel originating from Bordeaux. This size became international standard due to Bordeaux's historical trade dominance. The relatively small size provides good surface-to-wine ratio for oak extraction and micro-oxygenation. Burgundy uses slightly larger 228-liter pieces.

Related Terms

barrel piece hogshead

See Also

Barrel Fermented Back to Glossary Base Wine

Reference

More terms starting with B

Balance

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

Barrel

Wooden container used for fermenting and aging wine.

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.