Oak
Oak
Oak imparts flavor, aroma and texture into wines through fermentation in oak barrels. These barrels act as gentle, breathable vessels that add complex notes of vanilla, spice and toast while improving the wine’s overall structure and mouthfeel. There are two types of oak: French oak has a tighter grain and it contributes subtle spice and silky flavors to wine. American oak is bolder, known for its higher vanilla and coconut compounds.
See Also
Dosage
Dosage is the final step in producing traditional sparkling wine (such as Champagne) where a small amount of wine and sugar, known as liqueur d'expédition is added to the wine after sediment is removed (disgorgement), just before corking.
Sediment
The term "sediment" signifies the natural, organic by products of the winemaking and aging process. It is made up of grape solids (skins, seeds, pulp), dead yeast cells (lees) and tartarate crystals (wine diamonds).
Clarification
Wine clarification is a process winemakers use to remove suspended solids, such as dead yeast (lees), grape skins, pulp and proteins.
Pruning
Pruning is the essential act of cutting back dormant grapevines to remove old wood and limit the number of future buds. It is important for managing vineyard health, controlling grape yield and improving fruit quality.
Viticulture
Viticulture is the branch of science that deals with the study, cultivation and harvesting of grapes specifically for winemaking. It includes all vineyard activities, such as planting, pruning, training vines, soil irrigation and pest control.
Oxidation
Oxidation is a chemical reaction that occurs when oxygen in the air comes in contact with the alcohol in wine, converting ethanol into acetaldehyde, then acetic acid. It causes wines to lose their vibrant colors and reduces fresh fruit aromas.
Irrigation
Irrigation is the artificial application of water to vineyards to provide the necessary 25-35 inches of annual water in dry climates.
Anthocyanins
Anthocyanins are natural polyphenol pigments located in the red grape skins, responsible for the red, purple and blue colors in young red wines. They determine the wine's hue, shifting from vibrant red to brownish orange as they age.