OAK SEGMENTS

MEDIUM-TERM EXTRACTION: OPTIMIZING FLAVOR WITH CONTROLLED OAK INFLUENCE

Medium-term extraction oak segments are an ideal solution for achieving a controlled and balanced infusion of oak flavors into wines, distillates, and beers. Due to their larger surface area, these segments allow for a gradual release of aromatic compounds, requiring additional time to fully impart the characteristic flavors associated with oak aging. This slow extraction process provides an opportunity to build complexity and depth in the beverage without overpowering its natural profile.

Primarily developed for use in stainless steel tanks, these oak segments offer the advantage of replicating many qualities of traditional barrel aging within a controlled tank environment. This flexibility is especially beneficial for winemakers, brewers, and distillers seeking to craft nuanced, oak-influenced beverages while maintaining control over the maturation process. Beyond stainless steel tanks, these segments can also be effectively used in neutral barrels and casks, adding an extra layer of complexity without altering the fundamental character of the barrel.

The extended contact time required for medium-term extraction encourages the development of subtle and complex flavors over several months. During this period, the oak segments release a harmonious blend of vanilla, caramel, and light spice notes, which enhance the beverage’s body, texture, and mouthfeel. This controlled release is particularly valuable for creating well-rounded flavor profiles that evolve over time, allowing the drink to mature gracefully with a balanced oak influence.

In addition to these medium-term extraction segments, we offer a variety of oak alternatives that further enhance your beverage-making options. Our staves, crafted from premium French or American oak, are specially designed for use in steel tanks, providing a concentrated oak effect for those who wish to impart more intense flavors. Staves are an excellent choice for achieving rich, complex notes, adding structure and character to beverages intended for medium-term aging.
For even greater flexibility in oak influence, our range includes oak beans and barrel kits. Oak beans, due to their small size, offer precision in flavor adjustments and allow producers to customize oak character in smaller batches or achieve specific aromas in the final blend. Barrel kits, on the other hand, provide a comprehensive system for replicating the nuanced characteristics of traditional barrel aging in a controlled setting. These kits are ideal for those seeking to experiment with a variety of toasting levels and oak influences, allowing for tailored flavor development.

With this diverse array of medium-term extraction options, including oak segments, staves, beans, and barrel kits, producers can achieve a unique and complex flavor profile tailored to their vision. Each element offers a way to shape the beverage’s character, whether through a soft hint of oak or a bolder, more pronounced influence. By integrating these oak alternatives, you can create wines, beers, and distillates that stand out for their balance, structure, and depth, meeting the expectations of today’s sophisticated consumers.