Kate Hawkings On... Concrete Eggs

How does the vessel a wine is made in affect its flavour? Olive’s wine expert explains how modern wine-makers are reimagining ancient techniques

- Kate Hawkings

In ancient times, wine was made in large clay vessels known as amphorae. Later came the wooden barrels, usually made of oak, with which we’re so familiar. Then, in the 19th century, fermentation tanks were made using concrete. These resin-lined vats, often the size of a small room, allowed wine to be made in larger quantities than in the more traditional wooden barrels. The 20th century saw the introduction of stainless steel tanks, which were easier to keep clean than concrete. These days most wine is made in stainless-steel tanks or oak barrels, or a combination of the two. Experimental winemakers are using other things as well, though.