Wines aged in cask (7–18 months)

Theageing in cask for a period of between 7 and 18 months represents a classic yet balanced approach to maturing wine. The large casks, usually of Slavonian oak or untoasted French oak, allow a natural micro-oxygenation, which helps the wine to stabilise, come together and develop a more complex, harmonious profile.

This type of ageing is widely used for red wines rooted in their land and for some structured whites, which seek depth without the aromatic intensity a barrique would give.

Characteristics of ageing in cask (7–18 months)

  • Duration: from 7 to 18 months

  • Cask capacity: 10–50 hl

  • Material: Slavonian oak or neutral French oak

  • Advantages:

    • Slow, controlled evolution

    • No masking of the fruit

    • Greater tannic harmony

    • Also suited to spontaneous fermentations or long macerations

Style of wine produced

Appearance Result
Colour More stable, with intense but natural tones
Aromas Ripe fruit, medicinal herbs, light spicy notes
Palate Structured, dry, harmonious, with integrated tannins
Longevity Excellent for 5–10 years or more, depending on the grape variety

Ideal grape varieties and types

  • Reds:

    • Sangiovese (Chianti Classico, Nobile di Montepulciano)

    • Nebbiolo (Langhe, Roero)

    • Cannonau, Montepulciano, Aglianico, Carignano

  • Whites:

    • Verdicchio Riserva, Trebbiano d’Abruzzo, Malvasia lunga

  • Also used for artisan wines with low sulphur or with indigenous yeasts

Food pairings

  • Red meat grilled or stewed

  • Feathered game

  • Pasta dishes with meat ragù

  • Medium-aged pecorino cheeses

  • Autumn dishes with mushrooms or chestnuts

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

For those who love depth without a woody overlay
To enhance terroir and varietal identity
For a an elegant, natural profile
Perfect for lovers of traditional wines

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

  • 1
    Crozes-Hermitage 2023 - Dard et Ribo

    Crozes-Hermitage 2023 - Dard et Ribo

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Crozes-Hermitage, France, Rhône
    Discover this wine
  • 2
    Crozes Hermitage AOC Rouge "Les Baties" 2022 - Dard et Ribo

    Crozes Hermitage AOC Rouge "Les Baties" 2022 - Dard et Ribo

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Crozes-Hermitage, France, Rhône
    Discover this wine
  • 3
    Saint-Estèphe AOC “Le C De Calon Ségur” Troisième Vin 2021 - Château Calon Ségur

    Saint-Estèphe AOC “Le C De Calon Ségur” Troisième Vin 2021 - Château Calon Ségur

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Bordeaux, France, Saint-Estèphe
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All those I have tried