In the new issue of Wine Enthusiast, contributor Shana Clarke delves into why some of the industry’s leading producers are committed to utilizing custom or bespoke barrels at their wineries. She compares the different characteristics one can achieve from aging wines in specific barrels to “a secret blend of seasonings in your signature dish.” The story highlights wineries that go a step beyond selecting top-rated barrels in order to produce their own, in-house. Within the piece, Shana interviews Philippe Guigal, winemaker of his family’s winery E. Guigal, to better understand why he believes his barrel-making facility gives an advantage. He adds, “It gives us the opportunity to select and focus on forests that might be lesser known, but reach an equivalent or higher level of quality.”
Related Producers
E. Guigal
Rhône Valley, France
The more you learn about the Guigal family, the more astounding becomes their story. Their wines are the benchmarks for every Rhone appellation, and over the last thirty years they have become arguably the most lauded producer in the world. Year after year the Guigal family produces wines of exceptional quality that in all classes offer exceptional value.
