What Flavors Does Oak Add to Wine?

Using oak barrels in the winemaking process can have a profound impact on the flavors and character of a wine.  Different oak types impart different wine flavors, including spice, vanilla, mocha, and even chocolate. Winemakers use oak barrels for aging red and white wines. French, American, and Hungarian oak are common. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot […]

How Does Wine Taste Like Chocolate?

If you’ve found this post, I’m willing to bet you’re drinking a red wine that tastes like chocolate. But is it milk chocolate or dark chocolate? The chocolate and mocha flavors common in wine come from oak. There’s no real chocolate in your wine. Winemakers use toasted French or American oak to give your wine […]