What does oak do to tannins ? How oak aging affects red wine

Unlocking the Magic of Bordeaux's Age-Old Wine Tradition...

In the enchanting world of fine wines, the role of oak barrels in shaping the character and complexity of Bordeaux reds cannot be overstated. "What does oak do to tannins?" The answer lies in the captivating transformation that occurs when wine and oak unite. Let's delve into the enchanting relationship between oak and tannins, the historical significance of oak barrels in Bordeaux's red wine heritage, and how we, at Château du Rocher continue to harness this timeless tradition to create exceptional wines.

In the world of Bordeaux red wines, oak barrels play a vital role in softening tannins, creating a smoother and more harmonious wine.

The Softening Effect of Oak on Tannins:

Oak barrels have long been revered for their ability to soften tannins (Waterlot et. al). Tannins are naturally occurring compounds found in grape skins, seeds, and stems. While essential for structure and aging potential, an excess of harsh tannins can make a wine overly astringent and unapproachable in its youth. This is where oak steps in as a savior. The porous nature of oak allows a controlled exchange of oxygen, which helps to mellow and round out the tannins, resulting in a smoother and more harmonious wine.

A Glimpse into Bordeaux's Wine History:

The use of oak barrels in Bordeaux winemaking dates back centuries. In the early 18th century, Bordeaux châteaux primarily and nearly exclusively sold their wines in barrels, rather than bottling them. This tradition endures to this day, where wine is still often measured in oak barrels (225-liter Bordeaux barriques) within the industry. Oak barrels have become synonymous with quality and the identity of Bordeaux wines. Based on the works of Hubert Bonin, we can see that this tendency has been growing since 1970.

Oak: A Time-Honored French Tradition:

Oak barrels for wine aging have a rich history in France, dating back to the 18th century (if not back to the gallo-roman era, with descriptions of oak barrels taken from "Gaulois" and later described by roman engineers). Their influence on wine quality and character has only grown over time. The use of oak barrels is a testament to the commitment to tradition and the pursuit of excellence in Bordeaux winemaking.

Different types of oak barrels, such as French, American, and Hungarian, impart distinct flavors and aromas to the wine. French oak, celebrated for its elegance and subtlety, is the preferred choice for Bordeaux reds. It enhances the wine with notes of vanilla, spice, and toast, without overwhelming the fruit.

Château du Rocher's Unique Approach:

At Château du Rocher, we embrace the art of oak aging, carefully selecting and blending from three different maturity types of French oak barrels at various stages of their life cycle. This mix includes new barrels, middle-aged barrels, and older barrels, creating a balanced harmony that enhances the wine's complexity without overpowering it with excessive vanilla flavors.

Our philosophy is to craft wines that can be enjoyed both in their youth and as they mature gracefully over time. The use of oak barrels at Château du Rocher is not about dominating the wine; it's about revealing its true identity, allowing it to express its terroir, and delivering a sensory journey that captivates the senses.

In conclusion, the marriage between oak and tannins is a fundamental aspect of Bordeaux winemaking, allowing Château du Rocher to create wines that are both approachable and age-worthy. With our meticulous approach to oak barrel selection and aging, we pay homage to Bordeaux's illustrious winemaking heritage while continually pushing the boundaries of quality and excellence. Discover the magic of Château du Rocher's Bordeaux wines, where tradition and innovation harmonize in every bottle.