What do you do with the barrels once they are used?
Barrels are primarily used for aging wine, allowing subtle wood aromas to infuse and complexify the wine’s flavor profile. Cédric Guillod chooses to use these barrels for a maximum of three years, after which the qualities they impart begin to diminish.
Recycling and reusing barrels
Once their role in wine production is complete, barrels can have a very interesting second life. Here are some of the most common uses:
- Decoration and furniture: Barrels are often transformed into tables, chairs, or decorative elements for gardens or interiors. Their rustic appearance and connection to winemaking tradition add a special charm to any space.
- Planters: By cutting the barrels in half, they can be turned into beautiful planters for plants and flowers. This provides not only practical use but also contributes to a natural and sustainable aesthetic.
- Construction materials: The wood from barrels can be repurposed to create wooden panels, flooring, or other structures for construction or renovation projects.
- Craft items: Many artisans use the wood from old barrels to craft various items such as clocks, lamps, or kitchen accessories.
- Use in other industries: Some distilleries purchase old wine barrels to age spirits such as whiskey or rum, which benefit from the residual aromas of the wine and wood.
Thus, wine barrels, after their initial use, can find many applications that extend their life well beyond their original function. This not only helps reduce waste but also contributes to the creation of unique, value-added products.
At Cave Guillod, we love to see our barrels have a second life. Don’t hesitate to ask us!
