What does New oak mean?

New oak means oak barrels used for the first time; they give the wine clear notes of vanilla, toast and spice and extra tannin.

Also known as: New barrels, Barrique

New oak means the wine was fermented or aged in oak barrels used for the first time. A new barrel gives off the most flavour and tannin, and its influence fades with each vintage it is used for.

The flavour comes from compounds in the wood and from toasting. When the barrel is made, the staves are heated over fire, and the level of toast shapes the aromas. Typical notes are vanilla, toast, caramel, coconut, coffee and spices such as clove. French oak often gives finer, spicier notes, while American oak gives more obvious vanilla and coconut.

Size matters. The classic barrique holds 225 litres, and in a small barrel a larger share of the wine is in contact with wood than in a large one. New barrels also add tannin from the wood and let in small amounts of oxygen, which builds structure and can support ageing potential.

New oak is common for powerful reds and full-bodied whites such as chardonnay. Producers often use a mix of new and older barrels to keep the oak in balance with the fruit. The share of new oak is sometimes given as a percentage.