French Oak
French Oak (Quercus Sessilis)
This species provides a significant aromatic contribution that is complex, elegant and balanced. It is noted for its great contribution to wine structure, fineness and finish. Phenolic acids and ellagic tannins provide a substantial contribution to the structure of the wine. This species grows mainly in the central and northwestern region of France. TN Coopers selects the best forests in the areas of Allier, Nevers, Vosges and Centre. All our suppliers are certified under PEFC.
PEFC Certification
Open air drying up to 36 months
Fine Grain / Extra Fine Grain
Mature forests over 180 years old, grown using the haute futaie technique
ALLIER:
The soil is composed of thick, siliceous and not very fertile clay. The growth of the tree is very slow, which results in tall, straight logs when harvested.
The grain is fine, compact and slightly porous with a sweet tannin extraction and pleasant aromas.
The extremely vertical growth of the trunks and the regularity and fineness of their grain make Allier barrels highly valued in the market.
TRONCAIS:
It is the most renowned forest in the Department of Allier, with a surface of 10,600 hectares. It has a finer grain, which makes it suitable for long-aging wines.
NEVERS:
The oak from Nevers, in the center of France, is usually medium grain compared to the one from Allier, but its quality is undeniable. The result is a greater tannin extraction than in very fine-grain wood. It generally requires a longer aging period to integrate completely with the wine.
VOSGES:
This department is found near the border with Germany, on the northeast, where the climate is colder and the development of the tree is slower. It traditionally has a fine grain.
FONTAINEBLEAU:
The inspiration for our icon barrel. Located 60 kilometers from Paris in the region of Île-de-France, it has an area of 21,600 hectares. Its prestige is closely linked to the history of France, which makes it a forest with a very limited volume of highly aromatic wood available for cooper use. This forest received the title of “Exceptional Forest” from the French National Forestry Office (ONF, Office national des forêts).
