Oak Barrels From An Ancient Tree

by Deidre Woollard (RSS feed)
Nov 22nd 2005 at 12:02PM

When we discuss wine or spirits we often talk about how the wine was aged. The type of barrels used often are a big part of the flavor. Decanter reports that a 340-year-old oak tree planted during the reign of Louis XIV has been sold to a Bordeaux cooper for 37,700 euros. The Bordeaux cooperage Tonnellerie Sylvain bought the tree, which even has a name: Le Chêne de Morat, at auction. The tree is the last survivor of a group of trees planted at the same time. It is expected that the massive tree will yield 60 barrels. Wine producers are eager to get their hands on the barrels because of the unique qualities of the wood.

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Leanne Jenkins Dec 18th 2005 6:02PM

Deidre:

Do you know how much these barrels will sell for once they've been made? How long will they last (or how many times can a winemaker use them?)

Thanks,
Leanne

James Thomson Dec 18th 2005 6:02PM

Leanne

The unique story will provide a real premium. Most barrels seldom top $800 but with the wood alone in the $600 range I expect they would be at least $1200. Depending on how long the barrels are filled for, they can be used a number of times and, being from the whisky industry, I bet a distiller would then, after they have imparted flavour to wines, like to use them for maturing his whisky so the story about oak planted in 1665 can add to the romance. Usually distillers select oak that is around 150 years old.

James

Leanne Jenkins Dec 18th 2005 6:02PM

James:

Thanks for the helpful info. Being in the business you are, what happens to these casks when they are "finally done?" Are they simply destroyed and used for kindling? Can anything else be done with them?

Thanks,
Leanne

James Thomson Dec 18th 2005 6:02PM

Leanne

after they have given all they can to flavour wine or later spirits they can be rejuvenated by removing some of the inner wood of each stave - but after many years they end up as planters, decoration, firewood or are scrapped.

James
http://whisky.co.uk