While Calgary might be better known for cowboys than cabernet, that doesn't mean you can't age your own wine in oak barrels! Let's delve into the factors influencing aging time, how barrels work their magic, and why patience is a winemaker's virtue.

It's Not a Set Timer

There's no single answer to how long wine ages in barrels. Here's why:

Grape Variety: Red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon can handle longer barrel aging, while lighter reds like Pinot Noir need less time.
Winemaker's Style: A winemaker aiming for bold oak flavors will age longer than one desiring a subtler touch.
Barrel Size: Smaller barrels mean more contact between the wine and wood, leading to faster flavor development.
New vs. Used Barrels: A brand new barrel imparts stronger oak flavors initially, mellowing over time with multiple uses.

Typical Timeframes

While there are always exceptions, here's a general guideline:

Big, Bold Reds: 18-24 months in oak is common.
Lighter Reds: 6-12 months is often the sweet spot.
White Wines: Some Chardonnays may see a bit of oak aging, but usually for a shorter duration than reds.
The Barrel's Role in Aging

Barrels do more than just hold wine; they actively influence its development:

Oak Flavors: Vanilla, spice, toast, smoke – those desirable notes come from the type of oak used for the barrel.
Micro-Oxygenation: Tiny amounts of oxygen seep through the wood, softening tannins and adding complexity to the wine's flavor.
Evaporation: Some wine evaporates through the barrel (the ""angel's share""), concentrating flavors over time.

Calgary Connection

Experimental Spirit: While smaller wineries might not age wine for extended periods, there's room for DIYers to experiment in Calgary!
Source Matters: Finding used wine barrels might require reaching out to wineries in BC's Okanagan Valley.

DIY Considerations

Aging your own wine in a barrel is an ambitious project! Keep in mind:

Sanitation is Key: Barrels need meticulous cleaning to prevent bacterial growth that can spoil wine.
Topping Up: You'll need to regularly top up the barrel to replace evaporated wine.
Taste & Test: Sample your wine periodically to track how the flavors are developing and decide when it's reached your desired taste.

Share Your Barrel Aging Adventures!

Are you embarking on a home wine aging project in Calgary? We'd love to hear about it! Share your experiences on social media using the hashtag #CalgaryBarrelWinemaker

Interested in shopping for wine barrel furniture? You can browse our full collection of items ranging from coffee tables to home bar and game sets here!

www.obarrel.com/collections