New Oak

/NOO OHK/

Barrels being used for the first time.

Full Definition

New oak refers to barrels being used for the first time, imparting maximum oak flavors - vanilla, spice, toast, and cedar. After first use, barrels become 'second fill,' 'third fill,' etc., contributing progressively less oak character. '100% new oak' means all wine aged in new barrels. Over-oaking can overwhelm wine character.

Related Terms

barrel oak neutral oak

See Also

toast cooperage

Neutral Back to Glossary New World

More terms starting with N

Natural Wine

Wine made with minimal intervention and additives.

Negociant

A merchant who buys grapes or wine to blend and sell.

New World

Wine regions outside traditional European areas.

Noble Rot

Beneficial fungus (Botrytis cinerea) for sweet wines.

Nose

The overall aromatic character of wine.

Native Yeast

Wild yeast found naturally in vineyard or winery.