Over time barrels have been used for many things, and in many ways.  Some of those uses have been for dry goods, and the transportation of those goods.  But today most people associate barrels with wine and whiskey.   In the past these barrels were made of pine, oak and redwood.  (Although redwood is no longer used.)

Wine barrels today are usually made with French, American or even Hungarian Oak.  But most associate the barrels with French oak, though the American oak is starting to come into play more.  Most of the French oak comes from the forests which were planted in the days of Napoleon for ship building.  And over time as the Coopers have experimented and learned how to prepare the American oak, this type of wood is being used more and more by the French wine makers.

When the barrels are being made there is different amounts of charring or “toasting” of the barrel. The amount of char has an effect on the wine aged in the barrel.   Wine makers can select from Light, Medium, to a Heavy Toast. The variety of the grape will determine the decision on the Toast.
 

Barrels are only part of the wine making process, don't forget to insure your wine from the start to the finish!  Contact Dianna Connelly for your Winery Insurance needs.