Wines aged in barrique (7–18 months)

Theageing in barrique for 7 to 18 months is one of the most common stages in wines of medium and full structure, where the wood has time to to interact deeply with the wine, but without dominating it.

This length of time makes it possible to obtain wines balanced, with greater aromatic complexity, polished tannins and a a more refined developmental profile, keeping the balance between varietal and tertiary notes.

Characteristics of ageing in barrique (7–18 months)

  • Ideal duration for great structured reds and whites

  • Use of barriques:

    • New → toasted, vanilla aromas

    • Used → more delicacy, greater purity

  • It brings controlled micro-oxygenation → slow evolution

  • Often supplemented with bâtonnage (in whites or sur lie)

Style of wine produced

Appearance Result
Colour Deep ruby red or deep gold for the whites
Aromas Ripe fruit, sweet spices, coffee, fine wood
Palate Structured yet elegant, with melded tannins and a long, tasty finish
Longevity Excellent evolution for 5–10 years after bottling

Ideal grape varieties and types

Food pairings

  • Beef tagliata, roast beef, entrecôte

  • Duck, guinea fowl, roast lamb

  • Game ragù, pasta alla norcina

  • Aged cheeses, toma, pecorino

  • Autumn dishes with mushrooms or chestnuts

Why choose a wine aged in barrique (7–18 months)

For those looking for finesse and structure
To appreciate thebalance between varietal character and wood
For special pairings and special occasions
An excellent compromise between youth and the potential to develop

In barrique (7–18 months): My personal top three

  • 1
    Côte-Rôtie Blonde du Seigneur 2020 - Domaine Georges Vernay

    Côte-Rôtie Blonde du Seigneur 2020 - Domaine Georges Vernay

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Côte-Rôtie, France, Rhône
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  • 2
    Rully Blanc Vieilles Vignes 2020 - Vincent Girardin

    Rully Blanc Vieilles Vignes 2020 - Vincent Girardin

    • Type: Vino Bianco
    • Region: Burgundy, France, Rully
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  • 3
    Saint Joseph Blanc “Croix de Chabot” 2021 - Yannick Alléno & Michel Chapoutier

    Saint Joseph Blanc “Croix de Chabot” 2021 - Yannick Alléno & Michel Chapoutier

    • Type: Vino Bianco
    • Region: France, Rhône, Saint-Joseph
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All those I have tried