Unique Barrels from Argonne Oak
Through our friend, Claude Giraud, we first learned of truly unique Argonne oak barrels. Barrels handcrafted from oak that not only stood during WWI, but it was growing in the very Argonne forests where the battle took place. Monsieur Giraud insisted we meet Jérôme Viard, an esteemed barrel maker in France with unparalleled expertise.
Oak from the Argonne Battlefield The curious story of our barrels
And so, we visited the workshop of Jérôme Viard. And how shall we put this? In France there are barrel makers and then there are barrel makers. And Jérôme is one of the most honored expert barrel makers in the country.
It turns out that Jérôme Viard is the only barrel maker with access to oak from the Argonne Forest; oak that, incredibly, comes from trees so old that they were already mature specimens during the battle in 1918. Talk about a craftsman doing his work, and all the while history is looking over his shoulder.
“…we need to be careful when we cut these logs. Otherwise, shrapnel embedded from the battle in World War I can hurt our sawblades...”
Unique in the World Geolocated oak trees?! What?
But beyond mere access to this unique wood, our French friends have researched the Argonne Forest’s oak trees in more detail than you can imagine. Interestingly, they have identified over 10 different and distinctive tree “terroirs” within the forest. And their analysis doesn’t stop there, for they believe that are distinctive characteristics in the oak relative to the height from the ground where it was growing. That’s attention to detail!
Argonne Oak, wine influence without the "oak"
So just what is it about this unique oak? And why are we fixated on it? Well, the short answer is among other things, the soil and growing conditions aren’t exactly conducive to a tree growing, and the result? Slower growth, a tighter grain, and less porous wood—thus, by intent, providing the oxygen transfer necessary to produce mouthfeel, and roundness, but without an overly oaked affect.
Champagne Henri Giraud barrel showing its geolocated position within the Argonne Forest and age (in this case 173 years old).
Experience Argonne Wines Argonne Oak; the most subtle influence
Just as they do in Champagne, Argonne oak barrels impart a very unique and subtle character to our wines, making each a true expression of our story and proudly reflecting our passion for Washington State wines. We invite you to explore these flavor profiles for yourself.
