Why Used Wine Barrels Might Be Just What Your Business Needs: A Closer Look

The average cost of your typical wine barrel, which is between $900 and a few thousand dollars, may scare you away from getting into winemaking. But, fear not, because there is a less expensive and even better option available.

By using used wine barrels, you can save on money and get more satisfaction out of your final product. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of using used wine barrels. 

The Science Behind Wine Barrels 

A wine barrel does more than contain aging wine, it contributes to the flavor, texture, and mouthfeel of the final product. In other words, a wine barrel to aging wine is the same as kitchen spices for your home meal.

A wine barrel passes on flavor by allowing small amounts of oxygen to interact with the aging wine, which can then soften the tannins in the liquid. Yet, not every wine barrel will impart the same flavor to aged wine.

When assembled, a new wine barrel is “toasted” over a fire. A barrel can have either a light, medium, or dark roast. Whereas a wine barrel with a lighter toast will pass on more notes of vanilla and caramel, barrels with a darker toast will impart a more smoky aroma. 

Unused Versus Used Wine Barrels 

Like with all things, there are advantages and disadvantages to using either unused or used wine barrels. Which you chose to age wine will ultimately depend on what characteristics you want your final product to have and your available budget. 

Unused Wine Barrels 

An unused or new wine barrel will impart the most aromas and flavors to the final product when used to age wine. With every use, the aromas and flavors start to dissipate. But, that doesn’t mean that wine aged in used wine barrels is flavorless.  

Used Wine Barrels

By using a used wine barrel, you can impart a creamier and rich texture to your aged wine. Also, since wine barrels retain bits of the liquid they contain, then they can impart the flavors of those liquids into a new product when used again.

For example, you may have heard of winemakers aging their wines in whisky barrels. When you “mix” drinks like this, you can include crossover benefits in your final product. 

Where To Find Quality Used Wine Barrels 

You can easily find quality used wine barrels for sale online. They can be used for aging wine or whiskey or for decorative purposes. 

Get the Most Out of the Winemaking Process

If you want your aged wine to have none of the flavors that you associate with aging in new wine barrels, then invest in used wine barrels. Also, if you’re looking to get into winemaking or have a winemaking business and are looking for a cheaper alternative, then look to used wine barrels. 

Whether you’re new to winemaking or have been in the business for years, you can find more helpful related content when you browse our articles.