Oak Barrel Aging

Wine, as it rests in the barrel, goes through subtle chemical changes, resulting in greater complexity and a softening of the harsh tannins and flavours present at the end of fermentation. The effect of specific wood on different wines is the subject of great discussion and experimentation among wine makers throghout the world. 
 
A barrel essentially does two things:
1. It allows a very slow introduction of oxygen into the wine.
2. It imparts the character of the wood into the wine and enchances the wines natural flavours.