Yes, you can age a wine that has been aged in concrete or clay vessels instead of oak. While oak barrels are traditionally used for aging wines, concrete and clay vessels are becoming increasingly popular among winemakers for their unique benefits and characteristics.
Benefits of aging wine in concrete or clay vessels
- Neutral flavor: Unlike oak barrels, which can impart flavors such as vanilla and spice to the wine, concrete and clay vessels have a neutral effect on the wine, allowing the true characteristics of the grape to shine through.
- Micro-oxygenation: Concrete and clay vessels are porous materials that allow for a slow and gentle exchange of oxygen, which can help to soften tannins and enhance the wine’s complexity over time.
- Temperature stability: Concrete and clay vessels have excellent insulating properties, which help to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the aging process, creating a more stable environment for the wine.
- Texture and mouthfeel: Wines aged in concrete or clay vessels often exhibit a unique texture and mouthfeel, with a softer and smoother character compared to wines aged in oak barrels.
Factors to consider when aging wine in concrete or clay vessels
- Type of grape: Certain grape varieties may benefit more from aging in concrete or clay vessels, depending on their flavor profile and structure.
- Aging time: The length of time the wine spends in concrete or clay vessels will impact its development and aging potential.
- Winemaking process: Factors such as fermentation techniques, maceration, and blending can all influence the way a wine ages in concrete or clay vessels.
- Storage conditions: Proper storage conditions, including temperature and humidity levels, are essential for aging wine in any type of vessel.
Aging potential of wine in concrete or clay vessels
While the aging potential of wine in concrete or clay vessels may not be as well-documented as that of wine aged in oak barrels, many winemakers believe that these vessels can produce wines with excellent aging potential. The key is to carefully monitor the wine throughout the aging process and determine the optimal time for bottling based on its flavor profile and development.
Comparing aging in concrete, clay, and oak vessels
Each type of vessel offers unique characteristics and benefits for aging wine. Here are some key differences between aging wine in concrete, clay, and oak vessels:
- Concrete: Concrete vessels are known for their neutral flavor profile, micro-oxygenation properties, and temperature stability. Wines aged in concrete vessels often exhibit a clean and pure expression of the grape.
- Clay: Clay vessels are similar to concrete in terms of their neutral flavor profile and micro-oxygenation properties. Wines aged in clay vessels may develop a slightly earthy or mineral character over time.
- Oak: Oak barrels are famous for imparting flavors such as vanilla, spice, and toast to the wine. Wines aged in oak barrels often have a richer and more complex flavor profile compared to wines aged in concrete or clay vessels.