Oak Alternatives- Options and implementation

Over the past decade, oak alternatives have become an important oenological tool alongside traditional oak barrels.

Substantial investment in research and development has driven significant improvements in product quality and broadened the range of applications.

Oak alternatives give winemakers tools to shape a wine’s aromatic profile, structure and body. The various product formats and application methods allow them to be thoughtfully integrated into winery practices, helping bring out the best in each wine.

Barrel sticks are an oenological tool for enhancing a wine’s profile during barrel ageing. Designed for insertion into used oak barrels, they provide a “boost” of new oak, adding structure and enriching the wine with subtle toasted flavours and aromas.

Boisé is the oak products division of Vivelys and a pioneer in precision oenology. Boisé’s philosophy centres on highly standardised oak products, offering exceptional quality, consistency and a precise sensory impact.

Oak staves allow longer contact between oak and wine, delivering considerably more complex results than oak chips. Their sensory profile approaches that of barrel ageing, while their main advantage is quick, convenient application.

7 mm oak staves are suitable for enriching the aromatic profile and making a modest contribution to structure over a relatively short period of 4–6 months.

Thicker oak staves (18 mm) offer a much more complex profile—as close to oak barrel ageing as possible—combining aromatic complexity with enhanced structure and body. They are intended for 6–10 months of ageing.