What makes Chardonnay such a perfect partner for oak? In this episode of The Oak Effect, Gus Zhu—R&D Scientist and Master of Wine—dives into the chemistry and artistry behind one of winemaking’s most iconic relationships. From the creamy, buttery textures that wine lovers crave to the vanilla and spice notes that elevate the experience, we’ll explore how oak transforms Chardonnay in the barrel and the bottle.

In the latest episode of The Oak Effect, Master Cooper Quinn Roberts shines a spotlight on the Forêt de Fontainebleau. This historic French forest is known for producing oak with elegance, finesse, and balance.

We’ll explore what makes Fontainebleau oak unique, how its terroir influences the wood, and why it's a trusted choice for crafting barrels that shape exceptional wines and spirits.

If you’re passionate about precision, tradition, and the subtle artistry behind barrel aging, don’t miss this episode.

Join us for a deep dive into the fascinating world of oak aromas with sensory scientist, Gus Zhu. In this episode, Gus explores where the signature aroma compounds of oak originate and how factors like oak species, seasoning methods, and toasting processes shape the flavors we know and love in wine and spirits. Whether you're a winemaker, distiller, or just oak-curious, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.