The sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa) is a deciduous tree with a high tannin content in its wood that is widespread in southern Europe. In addition to its importance as a source of timber, it plays a role in viticulture primarily due to its chemical and physical properties. In practice, they can also help to reduce the use of sulphur.
Chestnut wood is traditionally used for the production of wooden barrels, especially in Italy, France and Portugal. Compared to oak, it is more porous, favours a greater supply of oxygen and gives the wine a softer tannin profile. It is particularly suitable for strong red wines or oxidatively matured white wines.
![]()
I have great respect for the scope and quality of the wein.plus encyclopaedia. It is a unique place to go for crisp, sound information on terms from the world of wine.
Dr. Edgar Müller
Dozent, Önologe und Weinbauberater, Bad Kreuznach