Oaky
Beginner Tasting & SensoryDefinition
Flavors imparted by oak barrel aging, such as vanilla, toast, and spice.
In Depth
Oak contributes vanillin (vanilla), eugenol (clove), furfural (caramel/toast), and lactones (coconut, especially from American oak). New barrels impart more oak flavor; older barrels primarily provide gentle oxygenation. Over-oaking masks varietal character and terroir. The trend in fine winemaking has shifted toward less obvious oak influence.
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Details
- Category
- Tasting & Sensory
- Difficulty
- Beginner