Choosing the right vessel for aging wine can have a significant impact on its mouthfeel and structure. Different vessels, such as oak barrels, stainless steel tanks, and concrete tanks, all impart unique characteristics to the wine. Let’s explore how the choice of vessel affects the mouthfeel and structure of a wine.
1. Oak Barrels
Oak barrels are one of the most common vessels used for aging wine. They can be made from either French or American oak, each imparting different flavors and characteristics to the wine. Here’s how oak barrels affect the mouthfeel and structure of a wine:
- Oak barrels add flavors of vanilla, spice, and toast to the wine, enhancing its complexity.
- The porous nature of oak allows for slow oxygenation, which softens tannins and adds a smooth texture to the wine.
- Oak aging can also add a creamy mouthfeel and a rounder structure to the wine.
2. Stainless Steel Tanks
Stainless steel tanks are popular vessels for aging white wines and some lighter red wines. Here’s how stainless steel tanks affect the mouthfeel and structure of a wine:
- Stainless steel tanks do not impart any flavors to the wine, allowing the true characteristics of the grape to shine through.
- The lack of oxygen exposure in stainless steel tanks preserves the wine’s fresh fruit flavors and acidity.
- Wines aged in stainless steel tanks tend to have a crisp mouthfeel and a more linear structure.
3. Concrete Tanks
Concrete tanks are gaining popularity among winemakers for their unique effects on wine aging. Here’s how concrete tanks affect the mouthfeel and structure of a wine:
- Concrete tanks are porous like oak barrels, allowing for slow oxygenation of the wine.
- Concrete imparts a minerality to the wine, enhancing its complexity and adding depth to the structure.
- Wines aged in concrete tanks often have a silky mouthfeel and a well-integrated structure.
4. Amphorae
Amphorae, clay vessels traditionally used in winemaking, are making a comeback in modern wine production. Here’s how amphorae affect the mouthfeel and structure of a wine:
- Amphorae are porous like oak and concrete, allowing for gentle oxygenation of the wine.
- Clay imparts earthy and mineral notes to the wine, adding complexity to its flavor profile.
- Wines aged in amphorae often have a textured mouthfeel and a unique, terroir-driven structure.