A BIG fan of “nicely oaked” Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Marianne Clarke, of Castleblaney, Co Monaghan, wants to know about the difference between wine aged in French oak compared to those aged in oak from America.
The use of oak in the winemaking process goes back a long, long way – but it wasn’t until the early 19th century that winemakers realised that barrels could actually add flavour, aroma and complexity.
The judicious use of oak can add flavour compounds – like vanilla – allow for a slow intake of oxygen, thus making for a smoother end product.
It also plays a major part in malolactic fermentation, which makes wines taste creamier.
The grapes that particularly benefit from the use of oak in the fermentation and aging process are Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.
Oak from Hungary and Slovenia are occasionally used by European winemakers.
However, French and American oak are now very much the preferred choice.
French oak for barrels comes mainly from forests in south-central and eastern France and each of them has a distinct characteristic.
Most American barrel oak is grown in the Midwest and in the Appalachians.
French barrels give smoke and spice notes, with silkier textures, while their American counterparts deliver notes of vanilla, and a creamier texture.
The newer the barrel the greater its influence.
The aging in oak process can last for up 24 months, and in some cases longer.
Chateau de Pennautier Viognier 2024 (ABV 13%)
€16.99rrp @ good independent shops
Grape: Viognier
UNIQUE, and approachable lemon gold-coloured Viognier crafted with fruit grown and vinified close to Carcassonne in the Languedoc, France.
In its spiritual home among the vineyards of the northern Rhone it is usually a quite rich and oily white wine.
This it is a lighter style, but one that retains that characteristic, aromatic and honeysuckle note on the nose, along with a smattering of peach and passion fruit.
The palate is balanced, crisp and fresh, with citrus notes and a satisfying, lingering finish.
Enjoy with: Chicken tagine.
Star rating: ****
Domaine Wachau Gruner Veltliner Smargad Terrasses 2023 (ABV 12.5%)
€31.99 rrp @ good independent shops
Grape: Gruner Veltliner
Perched high above the Danube in Austria’s Wachau Valley lie the steep terraces that hold the key to this wonderful zippy white wine. A yellow straw colour, it has pronounced stone fruit, green apple, lime and pear aromas, with a dusting of white pepper.
With laser like acidity and a lovely leanness, the palate has a plush, rounded texture, is bone dry, with a flinty note, and oozes a citrus and stone fruit flavour profile. The finish is exceedingly long.
Enjoy with: Deep fried fish.
Star rating: ****
Boschendal The Tree Series Big Oak Shiraz 2022 (ABV 13.5%)
€13.99 @ good independent shops
Grape: Shiraz
THIS is a deliciously, medium bodied, easy drinking, and affordable Shiraz.
A deep, warm ruby colour, the nose gives up cherry and black fruit notes, a little wood, some spice, and dark chocolate.
The inviting palate has good balance and is exceptionally smooth, with intense soft summer fruit notes, a nice smokiness, with hints of chocolate, pepper and nicely integrated tannins.
This particular vintage is best drunk now.
Enjoy with: Grilled ribeye steak.
Star rating: ***
THIS WEEK’S BARGAIN BOTTLE
OUR promise is to bring Irish Sun wine lovers a taste-tested wine each weekend for under a tenner.
The cost of glass, packaging, labelling and transport have sky-rocketed in recent years.
So, finding excellent value tipples is getting harder – but we have sourced some great wines and will bring you a super sipper recommendation every weekend.
Specially Selected Costières de Nîmes 2023 (ABV 14.5%)
€8.99 @ Aldi outlets
Grapes: Syrah, Grenache
COSTIÈRES de Nîmes is situated between the Languedoc and the Rhône in southern France – and that means warmth and spiciness on these still chilly evenings.
Deep, crimson colour in the glass with earthy spice, blackberry and garrigue (wild herb) aromas.
The palate is quite spicy, with bramble fruit notes, crunchy tannins and good acidity.
Enjoy with: Hearty stews and casseroles.
Star rating: ***
