Storing wine in oak barrels offers several contributions such as: micro oxygenation, malolactic fermentation and addition of flavors.
A few things that affect flavors that are contributed to wine are: The type of oak used (mainly French or American oak); the time that the wine is stored in the barrel; and the toast inside of the barrel (light, medium, heavy).
There are many, many different flavors that can be integrated in wine when stored in barrels. Anything from dried fruit. woody, spices, vanilla and even herbal notes can be imparted on a wine.
Here at Ruby Mag, we use new and refurbished barrels! Our older barrels are taken to @rewine_barrels in Oregon where they are taken apart, planed, and re-toasted. Here we go reusing things again!
You have got to try our wines! We also offer a three pack (one of each) special for those interested in all of our wines! Shop with us here.