Giving oak the respect it deserves

Did you know that there are about 400 species of oak, of which only about 20 are used in making oak barrels? Of the trees that are used, only 5% is suitable for making high …

Did you know that there are about 400 species of oak, of which only about 20 are used in making oak barrels? Of the trees that are used, only 5% is suitable for making high grade wine barrels. And the average age of a French oak tree harvested for use in wine barrels is 170 years! Oak barrels, which may be charred before use (as shown in the picture), contribute to the color, taste and aroma, of the contents.

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