American oak has a long tradition in the wine industry, yet not all winemakers may realise the diversity of aromas and flavours this wood type can impart.

Heinrich Cooperage has become a specialist in American oak, crafting premium barrels focused on this wood type for wineries throughout Australia and New Zealand. All Heinrich barrels are crafted with oak exclusively sourced through a company-owned stave mill located in New Florence, USA. Over the years, the Heinrich team has developed a portfolio of toasts trialled to perfection to best showcase and explore American oak, from its traditional characters to achieving sensory profiles typically associated with French oak.

To guarantee quality for every barrel, Heinrich Cooperage employs proprietary technology that ensures consistency and repeatability barrel to barrel and vintage to vintage, with total transparency:

• Grain Recognition Technology (GRT): measures the grain tightness by counting the growth rings per centimetre (GPC) of every stave. This technology guarantees that if a winemaker orders a Fine Grain (3.94 GPC minimum) or Extra Fine Grain (5.91 GPC minimum) barrel, the minimum grain tightness will be achieved.

• Toasting Accuracy: By utilising infra-red toasting monitors, Heinrich Cooperage guarantees every barrel will be toasted at 95% or higher of the theoretical toasting curve.

This year, Heinrich Cooperage has introduced a new Signature Oak wood selection for its barrels. The Heinrich team sets aside the top echelon of extra fine grain staves and to undergo natural, open-air seasoning for 36 months. Signature barrels are an excellent choice for winemakers seeking the added elegance of this premium wood selection.

Contact the Cooperages 1912 Australia team to learn more by calling +61 (08) 85631356 or visit www.cooperages1912.com.au.