What type of Wine or Spirits are aged in French Oak Barrels vs American Oak Barrels

French oak barrels are often used to age high-end wines such as Burgundy, Bordeaux and some Champagne, as well as premium spirits like Cognac and Armagnac. The tight grain of French oak allows the wine or spirit to age slowly, with the flavours of the wood being imparted gradually over time. The delicate and nuanced flavours imparted by French oak also complement the complex and subtle flavours of these premium beverages.

On the other hand, American oak barrels are often used to age bold and full-bodied wines such as California Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and some Australian Shiraz, as well as some premium spirits like bourbon and whiskey. The more porous nature of American oak allows the wine or spirit to age faster, with the flavours of the wood being imparted more quickly. The bold and pronounced flavours imparted by American oak also complement the rich and robust flavours of these full-bodied beverages.