Oak barrels are more than storage—they actively shape wine and whiskey by adding flavor, texture, and structure through slow oxygen exchange and the release of tannins. Winemakers favor oak for its ...

When used thoughtfully, oak can help reveal unexpected and delicious flavors. Brian Freedman is a wine, spirits, travel, and food writer; event host and speaker; and drinks educator. He regularly ...

When I first wrote about wine 10 years ago this week, I wanted to make a point. A lot of different labels often get applied to wine. It’s elitist. It’s arrogant. It’s foreign or feminine or a whole ...

For centuries, oak has been the winemaker’s and distiller’s collaborator, quietly transforming clear spirits and young wines into something worth savoring. Here’s how the magic unfolds. Oak barrels ...