This new type of barrel was developed by Moldovan winemaker Vitalie Popa in collaboration with barrel manufacturer Alexander Gantenbrink (Auric Barrels) and has been on the market since 2024. When maturing wines in conventional wooden barrels, the problems of oxidation, contamination and evaporation occur. This is caused by the leaking silicone plugs, the gaps between the barrel staves and constantly changing air pressure due to fluctuating temperatures and humidity in the cellar. This is further exacerbated by the need to open the barrels during maturation, e.g. to take samples. In some cases, this can only be prevented by using high levels of sulphur.
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Markus J. Eser
Weinakademiker und Herausgeber „Der Weinkalender“