Topping up

During barrel aging, natural evaporation inevitably occurs, leading to a gradual loss of volume in the wine. This phenomenon is poetically referred to as the “angel’s share,” symbolizing the portion that gently escapes into the atmosphere over time. As evaporation takes place, a small empty space forms inside the barrel, increasing the wine’s exposure to oxygen and raising the risk of excessive oxidation. If not carefully managed, this additional air contact can disrupt balance and compromise the wine’s structure.

To prevent this, the practice of ouillage is carried out regularly. Ouillage consists of topping up the barrel with the same wine to fill the void created by evaporation. This meticulous and disciplined process limits unwanted oxygen exposure while allowing the wine to mature in a controlled and harmonious manner.

By maintaining a stable level within the barrel, we ensure that aging proceeds with precision, preserving freshness, structure, and aromatic integrity. Through this careful attention, the wine evolves gracefully, gaining complexity and depth without sacrificing balance.