A barrique, a term originating in Bordeaux, refers to the specific size and shape of a French oak barrel, typically holding 225 litres of wine. The barrique influences not only the flavour, but the texture of the wine. Newer barriques impart delicious vanilla and spice flavours to wines, and add uniquely textured tannins, building the wine’s complexity. Barrels also provide small amounts of oxygen to soften and stabilize the wine.
You know, when the French toast with a glass of wine, they say “santé!” which literally means “health.” Just like you, we care a lot about the health of our family: exercising (the skiing is getting better and better at Apex this year!) and eating right, making smart choices with what we put in our bodies. Wine is very much a part of our healthy lifestyle – it’s not a contradiction, but part of our intention: plaisir de vivre.