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TNFISHRMAN · 09-03-2005, 02:03 AM

Can oak Barrels be re-used?

Waldo · 09-03-2005, 03:48 AM

I don't know for sure TN bu I would think they could be as long as it is well sterilized inside before you use it again. Depending on how long it has been empty youmay have to go through the curing process again. I know George sells oak barrelsand I am sure he has the right answer for you.

http://www.finevinewines.com/Home-Wine-Making-Equipment-Oak- Barrels.asp

peterCooper · 09-21-2005, 12:59 AM

Looking a the prices on oak barrels they must be reusable.

Angell Wine · 09-21-2005, 09:44 AM

oak barrels have to stay full at all times with wine. i think you have about a 3 day period in which to they can stay dry. any longer and the wood will shrink and will have major leaks in them.

geocorn · 09-21-2005, 11:33 AM

go read my article on oak:

http://www.finevinewines.com/Oak1.htm

Angell Wine · 09-27-2005, 01:22 AM

has anyone tried a different type of wood like alder, beech, or maple to flavor there wine?

Hippie · 09-27-2005, 07:04 AM

I have used apple chips in apple wine with good results, but be very careful. Some woods might contain aromatic oils that are not so good in wine. Jack Keller uses some different types of wood such as mesquite. I know a guy in Minnesota who uses cherry and maple woods.

bilbo-in-maine · 10-20-2005, 10:48 AM

George said "go read my article on oak:"

The red wine kits I've make have come with oak chips or powder to be
added to the primary fermentation. Once these wines are stabilized and
ready for aging, is it overkill to then add oak cubes for that stage? I
remember reading something Masta said about oaking all his reds now.

bilbo-in-maine · 10-20-2005, 10:53 AM

Curious to know if there is an advantage to aging in bulk over aging in
bottles. Except for the fact that carboys are tied up for the duration, is
bulk aging preferable in terms of final quality of wine, or is it simply that
this is the best way to fiddle with tweaking flavors (oaking, sweetening,
etc?)

Curt · 10-20-2005, 02:30 PM

bilbo,

It's all a matter of personal taste as to how much oak you use. The oak that's added to the primary will be integrated more deeply with the other aspects of your wine and be a sort of background taste. The oak that's addedduring the aging process is much more agressive and up front. You hit the nail right on the head with your idea on bulk vs bottle aging and tweaking. Wine actually ages faster in the bottle than it does in bulk. Has to do with air contact in proportion to volume, or something like that.