The Oak Effect
Podcast Description
The Oak Effect explores the artistry, science, and impact of oak in winemaking and spirits. From French vs. American oak to barrel crafting, coopering, and sensory analysis, we dive deep into how wood shapes flavor, guided by industry experts and master coopers.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast centers on various themes including the artistry of oak in winemaking, the science behind aroma chemistry, and the craft of coopering. Episodes include topics such as comparing French and American oak, the impact of different wood types on flavor profiles, and in-depth discussions on sensory analysis and its implications for wine enthusiasts.

The Oak Effect explores the artistry, science, and impact of oak in winemaking and spirits. From French vs. American oak to barrel crafting, coopering, and sensory analysis, we dive deep into how wood shapes flavor, guided by industry experts and master coopers.
In this episode of The Oak Effect, host and R&D scientist Gus Zhu tackles a question he's frequently asked: What’s the difference between oak tannins and wine tannins? Gus demystifies this complex subject in an engaging and accessible way, guiding listeners through how tannins affect mouthfeel, their role in wine aging, and why oak-derived tannins behave so differently from those in grapes. With analogies, sensory explanations, and a touch of curiosity about the unknown, Gus shares why we’ve only scratched the surface when it comes to understanding tannins, especially those from oak.

Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
For a complete disclaimer, please see our Full Disclaimer on the archive page. The Podcast Collaborative bears no responsibility for the podcast’s themes, language, or overall content. Listener discretion is advised. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for more details.